The Australian coot has actual clown feet
Last edited Mon May 10, 2021, 04:30 AM - Edit history (2)
I mean, look at those crazy things. It looks like old-timey dinosaur art exploded out of this poor bird’s toes. We really shouldn’t stare, but those kickers are wild.
By Bec Crew • May 10, 2021 • Reading Time: 2 Minutes
Image credit: Shyamal/Wikimedia
MEET THE Australian coot (Fulica atra), a boisterous waterbird with a vast range that stretches from Eurasia to Indonesia, New Guinea and Australia. Also known as the Eurasian coot, the species has made its way to New Zealand in recent years, expanding its habitat even further.
In Australia, these birds can be found in lagoons, swamps, lakes and ponds all over the mainland and in Tasmania. With a sooty-black body, shiny black head, and a bright white bill, their bodies are elegant, especially when hiding their clownish feet under the water.
They also have a bright white frontal shield – a solid plate that runs down their forehead and has a texture similar to tough, calloused human skin. Many waterbirds have them, including the jacana and the swamphen.
Here’s an Australian coot in all its glory. It’s so darn proud of its feet:
(Image credit: Natural Visions/Alamy Stock Photo)
More:
https://www.australiangeographic.com.au/blogs/creatura-blog/2021/05/the-australian-coot-has-actual-clown-feet/
What clown feet?
= new reply since forum marked as read
