un-Commonly pretty

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A very common sight in our freshwater marshes these days is the Common Gallinule, seen above helping one of its many new chicks learn how to feed on the aquatic vegetation not far from the nest.  IMG_2543The fluffy black Common Gallinule chicks are comical (but adorable!) with their giant chicken-like feet, bald heads, and stubby little wings. But in a few months they will be as sleek and attractive as their doting parents.IMG_2453Until recently known by another rather unexciting name (Common Moorhen) the Common Gallinule is a member of the Rail family, and relative of the shimmering-blue Purple Gallinule (Audubon – Common Gallinule).

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