Slew of Old Coots

American Coot fleeing from an attack from another coot – Nikon D200, f7.1, 1/640, ISO 320, Nikkor 200-400mm VR with 1.4x TC at 400mm, natural light

“Crazy Old Coot” is a term that many of us know and associate with a foolish person, especially an old man. I’ve seen a lot of coots in my life, both the feathered and non-feathered kinds. I’m not sure though why coots were associated with “foolish people” or “old men”.

Curious American Coot – Nikon D200, f9, 1/320, ISO 320, Nikkor 200-400mm VR with 1.4x TC at 314mm, natural light

A test for being an old Coot might go something like this, you might be an old Coot if:

• You sit on a rocking chair and can’t get it going.
• Your knees buckle but your belt won’t.
• Your back goes out more than you do.
• Everything hurts, and what doesn’t hurt doesn’t work.
• Your little black book contains only names ending in “M.D.”
• You need glasses to find your glasses.

An American Coot with more than it can chew – Nikon D300, f7.1, 1/1250, ISO 500, Nikkor 200-400mm VR with 1.4x TC at 400mm, natural light

Now some old Coots do bite off more than they can chew but only an American Coot; with actual feathers and green clownish feet, are birds.

American Coot wing flap – Nikon D200, f7.1, 1/640, ISO 320, Nikkor 200-400mm VR with 1.4x TC at 400mm, natural light

There is also a phrase “bald as a coot” and I truly don’t know where that comes from because in all the time I have been photographing birds I have never once seen a bald coot.

American Coot in a defensive posture – Nikon D200, f7.1, 1/800, ISO 320, Nikkor 200-400mm VR with 1.4x TC at 321mm, natural light

Frankly I love Coots. I love how they posture their plump bodies, squawk, puff up, and get an attitude.

And yes, I am talking about the feathered kind.

Life is good.

Mia

Click here to view more of my American Coot photos plus facts and information about this species.