Mudhens, Lake of the Pines, 2013
| Location | Lake of the Pines, CA |
|---|---|
| Date | 2013-11-01 |
| Camera | DMC-TZ5 |
I believe the birds in these photos are groups of the American Coot (Mudhen). They are often mistaken for ducks and they migrate all over the pacific coast and far inland.
American coots can dive for food, but they can also feed and scavenge on the ground. They are omnivorous, eating plants, arthropods, fish, and other aquatic animals. Their main source of food is aquatic vegetation, especially algae. During breeding season, coots are more likely to eat aquatic insects and mollusks.
Photos by: my mom
Related post: Lake of the Pines, California
They all know which way to go following each other
They almost look like the moorhens that we have here in Florida. I haven't seen as many congregate together but they sure are noisy and like to fight. I'll have to see if I can dig out the video I took. :)