Just a couple of Coots

[mole]

Several folks seemed to enjoy the Coot pictures I posted a few weeks ago. Had a chance to revisit our tamest pair of coots, and discovered that the FA 100 macro can also be a good birding lens!

First I took a few snapshots with the 400mm, as my little friends were enjoying a drink of melted, puddled snow-water.

[mole]

But the coots seemed to be in such a calm mood, it seemed worthwhile to try to stalk in a little closer, close enough to use a shorter, sharper lens...

[mole]

So maybe 100mm is long enough for a birding lens (if the birds are tame enough...)

[mole]

In any case, I had fun stalking them, and hope you've enjoyed the results. Thanks in advance for any comments, critique & suggestions!

[gjtoth]

They have the goofiest-looking feet, don't they? As usual, I really enjoyed your images. I may not always comment (BAD, Gary... BAD!), but rest assured I always view.

[hnikesch]

Well you have had better luck with Coots than I have. Several have been in a local pond here in Florida but then hide in the reeds and scatter when they see me coming. Great detail out of that 100.

Hans

[mole]

Gary - Indeed amazing feet (by an amazing Designer). Please don't feel like you have to comment on EVERY photo - you have posted plenty of excellent images, and I certainly did not take time to comment on each...

Hans - Our coots seem to be much more approachable when they are up on the shoreline, and much shier while out in the water. See if you can catch them in the morning while they are feeding...