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This month’s mystery photo is a good example of what happens when an amateur photographer attempts to take a nighttime photo of a grey/black bird without flash. The photo was snapped at Balmorhea State Park in December of 2006. I was at the spring-fed pond way past sundown because all the inhabitants (fish, turtles, insects, and birds) of the pond were so fascinating.

A big thank you to everyone who took the time to offer up a guess. The correct answer was American Coot and the first to answer was Karen (although Alison was more specific). Congratulations Karen!

First thing to understand about the American Coot (Fulica americana) is that it is not a duck. Although it swims and feeds like a duck it is actually in the Rail family. The most noticeable difference is the “mud hen’s” chicken-like white beak and its funny shaped toes. At least partially because they are omnivorous and extremely resourceful, Coots are very common. You can find them throughout North America.

If you have time you should look at this picture of a baby Coot. I have not seen one in person but by looking at the picture I can honestly say that it is one ugly baby. Possibly the ugliest I have ever seen. I think it looks like road kill—perhaps this is the Coot’s way of discouraging predation?

Again, thank you for playing along and guessing!