Coots in freezing cold water

[Pink Dragonfly]

We have had a really wintery spell lately with a fair bit of ice and snow, and the birds are starting to look worse for wear

But at least the kids are happy, finally enough snow for the sledges!

Mette

[mn shutterbug]

You even get them ugly things over there?

[caleb7mm]

are they a different species than we get here in the states? I noticed they have a white spot above the beak and here they have a red spot.

thanks

--c--

[caleb7mm]

never mind, I was thinking of the marsh hen, got my trash birds confused

[Pink Dragonfly]

Thanks for looking, Mike and Caleb They are slightly different, mine is the Eurasian coot, Fulica atra, and yours is the American coot, Fulica americana (also known as the marsh or mud hen! Think you were right first time around Caleb!). The Eurasian one is largely with a black body whereas yours is largely grey. Also yours have a red spot at the top of the bill, ours don't.

Mette

[caleb7mm]

do yours have green feet like ours do? They look like miniture raptor feet

[A.M.D.A.]

Nice one, Mette!

I like the colours and reflections in the water, and the diagonal line running from top-right to bottom-left. The ice bits are a nice touch as well. Peaceful(if cold)-looking scene.

Alex

[Singletracklovr]

These little guys are so ugly their cute. Nice shot.