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Birds of a feather flock together

Adam Sawatsky discovers love comes in many forms for an unlikely pair

By Adam Sawatsky

Fred the peacock tried to make a dynamic entrance when he appeared uninvited on the Metchosin farm, but his vibrant plumage failed to impress the poultry.  Although he hasn’t left for five years, they still couldn’t care less.

Mark, the farm’s owner, says Fred stays because he has taken a particular interest in Gertie the turkey. “The peacock is kind of in love with the turkey!” As soon as we hear that, we realize our daily search for a story for the end of the newscast is over.  But when the videographer tries to get shots of Fred flirting, we see there is more to the story.

Fred’s efforts to impress the turkey keep being frustrated by Tom, Gertie’s protective son. “Tom turkey will fight with Fred to keep him away” Mark explains.

“And Fred the peacock will usually go off with his tail between his legs.”  We watch as Fred attempts to woo Gertie from afar.  But it’s a waste of time.  You see, Gertie the turkey only has eyes for Mark the man. “She likes me!” Mark laughs as he cradles the turkey in his arms.

I forgot to mention that Gertie has been cuddled-up with Mark during the interview. “I guess she was imprinted at a very young age. ‘Imprinting’ meaning she got connected to humans.”

Meaning, that the first bird that Fred the peacock has shown any interest in for years, will never connect with him. “Well actually, I’ve got a solution for Fred”.

Mark invites us to come see another part of his farm. “I was concerned about Fred’s well-being and seeing as he had the wrong idea about turkeys, I got him a pea-hen”.  He’s named her Freddie.  And after a few weeks of getting acclimatized to her new home, she’ll meet Fred. Mark hopes it’s a solution to the current love triangle.  Gertie will be able to cuddle her man without distraction, Tom could simmer down, and Fred the peacock may finally realize why he stopped at Mark’s farm all those years ago – to finally find a mate who can truly appreciate his flair for flamboyance.

—  Adam Sawatsky is an Anchor-Reporter at CTV News Vancouver Island