The Common Gallinule is also called the Moor Hen. I personally prefer Moor Hen, I can spell that.

Fresh water marshes are full of these birds. Yet getting a decent shot is hard. So when I can get a calm one I take my time and try not to spook him.

Most of the time these birds hide in the reeds or run over the water squealing in a panic. Yes, their feet are huge and flat to almost allow them to run on the water.

The Moor Hen is like the ‘chicken’ of the marsh. Everything eats them, so I guess being cautious is a good thing.

Another bird, the American Coot, looks so close I always thought they were the same. The Coot does not have the red areas of the bill.

Oh yeah, another reason to keep them calm is when they start running and wailing every animal in the area knows you are there. Besides, a sudden screaming critter can scare the hell out of you out there.