If you look closely at my photo of this American Coot, you can see that it doesn’t have webbed feet like a duck. I see lots of these birds during the winter at the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma.
American Coot feet are definitely one of the most interesting features of these unique birds! Here are some fascinating facts about them:
- Lobed, not webbed: Unlike ducks with their webbed feet, American Coots have lobed toes. These lobes are fleshy flaps that extend from each of the bird’s three toes.
- Multi-purpose marvels: The lobes act like mini paddles, helping the Coot propel itself through the water with surprising agility. But wait, there’s more! When the Coot walks on land, the lobes fold back, allowing it to walk comfortably on various surfaces like mud, grass, and even ice.
- Colorful and vibrant: The lobes come in a beautiful array of colors, ranging from yellow and green to blue, depending on the lighting and season. This vibrant coloration might even play a role in attracting mates.
- Secret weapons: The Coot’s strong feet are also used for defense. They can deliver powerful kicks to ward off predators or other Coots during territorial disputes.
- Not alone: While the American Coot’s lobed feet are particularly impressive, other waterbirds like grebes and phalaropes also have lobed toes, though not quite as elaborate.
So, the next time you see an American Coot, take a closer look at its feet! These fascinating appendages are a testament to the incredible adaptations that allow birds to thrive in diverse environments.
Image Information:
Gear Used:
- Camera: Canon 7D
- Lens: Canon EF 500 mm f/4L IS
Technical:
- Location: Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge (Oklahoma)
- Date & Time Taken: February 6, 2012 (09:18 A.M.)
- Aperture Priority
- Aperture: f6.3
- Shutter speed: 1/1600 sec. (as determined by the camera)
- ISO: 320
- Exposure Compensation: -1/3
- Focal Length: 500 mm