I mentioned yesterday that I saw some larger, more distinctive birds while out at Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary a few days ago. Here is one, an American Coot (Fulica americana). I can see why people become quite enthusiastic about bird-watching because I experienced a distinct thrill when I spied this bird poking about amongst the reeds that line the shore of Swan Lake, since I had never seen one before. (Or never noticed one before - which is pretty much the same thing.) These birds have been around for several hundred thousand years and remind me once again that I should look more closely at what I see instead of wandering around half-asleep.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
American Coot (Fulica americana)
I mentioned yesterday that I saw some larger, more distinctive birds while out at Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary a few days ago. Here is one, an American Coot (Fulica americana). I can see why people become quite enthusiastic about bird-watching because I experienced a distinct thrill when I spied this bird poking about amongst the reeds that line the shore of Swan Lake, since I had never seen one before. (Or never noticed one before - which is pretty much the same thing.) These birds have been around for several hundred thousand years and remind me once again that I should look more closely at what I see instead of wandering around half-asleep.
5 comments:
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".. wandering around half-asleep "
ReplyDeleteLOL
It is true though that to see these things, your 'alertness/awareness' has to rise. lol
Often, it means just staying in one spot, very still, and just waiting. I know we miss a lot as we trumble along oblivious to what we are passing. Very seldom do we just happen across such cool stuff at the exact moment of arriving.
Did I mention how Leonard Cohen came walking by me on the causeway last year? Only had to wait fifteen years, but it was worth it. LOL
I had no idea the bird population was so diverse!
ReplyDeleteNice photo of the coot, plants, the light glistening on the water - and I love watching the coots. They don't just dive, they leap into the air and pounce on whatever is underwater!
ReplyDeleteA favorite bird. I have taken a few photos myself of this type of bird.
ReplyDeleteNice picture. You're right sometimes we don't really see what is right in front of us. Glad you noticed this one.
ReplyDelete