The coot is a slaty duck-like bird that prefers fresh water but is sometimes found on salt water inlets and bays. It is a casual visitor to Newfoundland. This particular bird has found friends amongst the myriad other waterfowl at the western end of Quidi Vidi lake.
The expression "silly as a coot" probably originated from the peculiar appearance of the coot with its dark head, white bill and clumsy movements. When swimming it moves its head back and forth like a chicken.
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