Calling American Coot portrait – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/640, ISO 500, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
This adult American Coot may look like it is screaming but in reality it is simply calling out because another bird got close to it next to the shoreline of a small pond.
I took this portrait of this calling American Coot nearly three years ago, processed it this past January and last night decided to share it here.
I guess I could have come up with a catchy title for this post along the lines of “Screaming American Coot Portrait” but coots don’t scream. These coots grunt, squawk, and make croaking noises and are highly vocal.
Examples of the calls they make can be found here and here.
I love to photograph American Coots and have said so many times in the 50 previous posts that I have included them in. The high contrast of their dark plumage, ivory colored bills and red eyes makes them a challenge to expose properly. They are also fun to watch as they feed, chase each other around, squabble and fight on the water and on the ground. American Coots make me laugh.
I must admit that I did entertain the thought of adding a speech bubble to this image with the text “2020 Sucks” next to the coot’s bill because it has.
Despite it all life is good and birds make it better for me.
Mia
Click here to view more of my American Coot photos plus facts and information about this species.
Great pic! Love how you caught the eye. The detail is marvelous. Sometimes being called an “Old Coot” ain’t so bad. Thanks Mia.
Wonderful shot.
And yes, your speech bubble would apply world wide.
Great shot Mia!
Fantastic photo. I love American Coots as well. And yes, your idea of a speech bubble of “2020 Sucks” is a good one.
Good photo Mia