After surgery, I haven’t been able to get out and immerse myself in nature like I usually do. It’s been hard—nature has always been my solace, a way to reset and find peace, especially during tough times. So, when I found a way to reconnect with the world from a distance, it felt like a small victory.
I set out with the intention of witnessing a stunning sunset, hoping it would lift my spirits during recovery. I couldn't venture far, but driving right up to the seaside gave me a front-row seat to something unexpected—a 'seagull city' as far as the eye could see. Seagulls were everywhere, squawking, chatting with one another, bathing in the shallows, foraging for food, and simply relaxing before the sun dipped below the horizon.
At first glance, they all seemed the same—just a sea of white and gray feathers against the coastline. But as I sat there observing, I began to notice subtle differences I hadn't picked up on before. Some gulls were larger, with more pronounced markings, while others were smaller, with softer, more delicate coloring. It was the first time I had really paid attention to the variety of gulls, realizing that they weren't all as identical as I once thought.
Southern Vancouver Island is home to several common gull species, and I'm sure I was looking at a few of them that day. Glaucous-winged gulls, which are one of the largest, stood out with their pale gray wings, while Mew gulls were smaller with a sleeker look. I likely also saw Western gulls, known for their darker backs, and perhaps even the striking black head of a Bonaparte’s gull. It was fascinating to see such diversity in a species I once overlooked.
Did you know, that in British Columbia (BC), there are around 10 species of gulls that are regularly found, especially along the coastlines and in the interior regions? And overall, there are 13 different species that are found in Canada. Who know there were so many different types?
As I sat watching the seagulls, one in particular caught my eye—a gull effortlessly floating on the water with a large clam shell clasped in its beak. It was quite a sight to witness, as if the gull was proudly showing off its catch, waiting for just the right moment to drop it and crack it open. The simple yet ingenious way these birds interact with their environment never ceases to amaze me.
As I laughed at their antics, my original mission of witnessing the sunset took on a new layer of meaning. The sky did indeed fill with beautiful shades of pink and gold, and it was breathtaking. But what I took away most from the experience was the sense of healing I found in just being there, in watching life unfold naturally, even from a distance.
Even though I couldn't fully immerse myself in the way I’m used to, observing from afar brought a sense of peace. It reminded me that healing doesn’t always look the way we expect it to. Sometimes, it’s as simple as slowing down, sitting back, and letting nature come to us—even if it’s through a city of seagulls.
The next time you see a seagull, take a moment to really notice the beauty of their colors—the subtle shades of gray, white, and even the hints of yellow in their beaks. And don't forget to laugh at their playful antics as they squawk, dive, and interact with one another. Seagulls remind us, in their own simple way, to live each day fully, embracing the little moments with curiosity and joy.
Ordinary birds aren't quite so ordinary when observed through the lens by Jennifer
Outstanding,as usual. Peace.