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Australian Coot
These Australian Coots were photographed on Lake Wakatipu on a windy day in a small inlet where boats were moored. Three species had gathered to escape the rough conditions (New Zealand Scaup, Grey Teal and Australian Coot). Details: Canon 350d, EF 300mm f/4 IS, 1.4x TC, 1/640, f/5.6, 200 ISO, hand held. -
Australian Coot
These Australian Coots were photographed on Lake Wakatipu on a windy day in a small inlet where boats were moored. Three species had gathered to escape the rough conditions (New Zealand Scaup, Grey Teal and Australian Coot). Details: Canon 350d, EF 300mm f/4 IS, 1.4x TC, 1/400, f/5.6, 200 ISO, hand held. -
Australian Coot
These Australian Coots were photographed on Lake Wakatipu on a windy day in a small inlet where boats were moored. Three species had gathered to escape the rough conditions (New Zealand Scaup, Grey Teal and Australian Coot). Details: Canon 350d, EF 300mm f/4 IS, 1.4x TC, 1/250, f/5.6, 200 ISO, hand held.
Australian Coot
(Fulica atra)
Size: 38 cm, 570/520gm (male/female)
Description: Black with white bill and head shield. Eye red, legs dark grey, feet lobed. Juveniles are dark brown with pink shield. Flys with laboured take off. Swims with jerky head movements, dives for aquatic plants and occasionally grases on grass.
Habitat: Small fresh water lakes and shallow bays of larger lakes.
Status: Protected self-introduced native, approx. 2000 birds in 1995
Breeding: August - February. 4-8 eggs laid. Both sexes build the nest and incubate.
Distinguishing Features: Swims with jerking heead movement. Labouring take-off. White bill and head shield. Lobed Feet.
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