By MICHAEL FEELY

Staff Writer

For the last five years, the island has been visited by a mysterious one-legged celebrity. Known as “Nubz” (as the 4^th Street South lifeguards call him) and also “Stumps” (as the 7th Street guards insist), a one-legged seagull has adopted the Brigantine City Beach Patrol. Or is it the other way around?

“He visits practically every day and has a special understanding with the guards,” said BCBP lifeguard Dan Weiler, who works the 4^th Street South stand. “He knows not to run or fly away when a guard chases away other gulls that might interrupt his meal. He uses his nub for scratching and has a very unique footprint.”

The lifeguards at 7^th Street South insist the seagull is their mascot and his proper name is Stumps.

“Stumps does his rounds and visits a number of the stands,” said 18-year veteran Mike Broomell. “He actually looks fatter this year, so the winter must have been good to him.” There was speculation that the “mysterious one” may be wintering in Palm Beach or Key West – he has that type of presence.

Tim Shannon, also at 7^th Street South, noticed this about Stumps: “His right eye is his good eye. But he uses his left eye if he doesn’t like you.”

Guard James Carcilli has had Stumps eat out of his mouth.

“Stumps has been coming to 7^th Street South for the last five years,” said lifeguard Sean Szatlowski. “I even feed him by mouth if the piece of food is big enough. Recently I actually got him to land on my arm for a brief 1.5 seconds.”

Whether known as Stumps or Nubz, this is one seagull that has personality. He sits on top of the stand and watches his subjects as they walk the beach. He enjoys the new umbrellas.

Is it time for the island to have an official seagull? Will Mayor Phil Guenther read a proclamation at City Council? Who will write the first “Stumps” children’s book? Let’s wait and see. It is just a matter of time until Brigantine has Stumps/Nubz T-shirts and sweatshirts. I wonder who his agent might be. Is he a Democrat, Republican or New Republican? Something tells me he is an Independent.

The Beachcomber, which has an exclusive with Stumps (he signed with his single foot, really!), will add pictures to future editions as sightings take place on the beach.