We were surprised to see this American Coot on January 31, 2026, in Ottawa County and even more surprised to see it walking across the ice. I quickly took many photos as it got closer to the ice. Most of the time we see them swimming in the water.
I am posting this photo because it shows the seldom seen feet. Their unique lobed feet are adapted for both swimming and walking. Their feet are broad with fleshy lobes that help the bird navigate through water and fold back when walking on land, allowing it to move easily across various surfaces as it forages.