Calm and tranquil, this American Coot photographed 3 days ago stood out from its typically aggressive and territorial behavior during the breeding season.
Tranquil American Coot on a March morning – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/640, ISO 640, +0.7 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
It was early in the morning when I photographed this coot at one of my local parks. There was a mist rising from the pond because the water was warmer than the chilly morning air. Even though there were other coots nearby this one kept to itself, preening, resting, and looking around.
With spring just around the corner, many of the American Coots I have observed lately are feeling the urge to breed. That urge causes quite a lot of aggressive behavior especially with other coots. American Coots become very vocal and territorial this time of the year and that can cause numerous chases and fights. Photographing those chases and fights is a lot of fun. That can be very challenging as a photographer. It is also high energy drama.
I saw that behavior happening with other coots on this same pond that morning.
This coot?
I think it just wanted to relax and be tranquil before the sun had fully risen. I get that. Becoming involved in high drama, or really any drama, isn’t the way I like to start my day either.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to view more of my American Coot photos plus facts and information about this species.
Being an old coot myself, I totally sympathize with this behavior.
Lovely light on the chest. Coots and humans seem to have things in common. Mate drama and territory conflicts. Seems both coots and humans are numerous. This human avoids any drama but I have to admit to rifes of territory , who didn’t play many childhood games that seem to be based on territory?