Was down at the home park's marina recently, and noticed one of the coots that seemed bolder than usual. We have a good population of American Coots here all winter, but they usually avoid humans. This one was right on shore, enjoying the winter plant life.
With me only a few meters away, and busy park traffic passing frequently, this "old coot" sat down and enjoyed the grazing.
Not too far away, a Mockingbird (our Tennessee State Bird) was soaking up some sunshine in a Privet thicket. These birds spend most of their winter days staying very close to their food, defending berries and small fruits from other hungry beaks!
Just up the hill, at one of our park picnic areas, the Eastern Bluebirds were also enjoying the warm sunny day...
Our region is also host to many White Breasted Nuthatches. They are usually very shy, but I was able to stalk pretty close to this one. He was working on the side of a White Pine, one of a long row of pines planted in our campground. By moving quickly from tree to tree while his head was down, was able to get quite close - close enough for a glimpse of his "lunch!"
And many small birds are "hanging out" at the bird feeders these warm winter days. Here's a Tufted Titmouse, a female Cardinal and a White Throated Sparrow, waiting their turn for some sunflower seeds.
I sure am having fun with this new/old lens! Hope you are enjoying this great season, and all the wild discoveries nearby. Thanks for any comments, critique & suggestions...
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