Lately, I’ve been seeing hundreds of American Coots at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge, and a few days ago, I photographed some on Lower Scarborough Slough.
Fleet of American Coots warming up on the shore of a slough – Canon R7, handheld, f14, 1/400, ISO 800, +0.3 EV, Canon EF 100-400mm II at 278mm, natural light
The refuge has many sloughs, and most of them have more than a few American Coots on them right now. These coots were warming up in the morning sun along the shore of Lower Scarborough Slough.
When I can, I like to get group photos of birds, and these coots were cooperative.
Did you know that a group of coots can be called a ‘commotion,’ ‘shoal,’ ‘swarm,’ or ‘fleet’ of coots? If you didn’t, you do now.
I know some bird photographers don’t put much focus on getting coot photos, but I’m not one of them. I really enjoy watching and photographing American Coots—anywhere, anytime.
An American Coot floats on silky deep-to-light blue water – Canon R7, handheld, f8, 1/1250, ISO 800, +0.7 EV, Canon EF 100-400mm II at 400mm, natural light
Some of the coots were already out on the water—some foraging, others just floating on the calm surface.
I really loved this coot photo because I had a great view of the bird, but the silky blue water had enormous appeal for me too. The gradient hues were simply beautiful.
Coots may not be the most colorful birds, but I always like having them in my viewfinder.
Oh, hey, happy first day of spring!
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to view more of my American Coot photos plus facts and information about this species.
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