a dusky moorhen

As far as I can tell, this is a dusky moorhen . . . often referred to as a marsh hen or river chicken! I went to the John and Mable Ringling museum on Sunday and saw 3 of these hens swimming in a pond or marsh next to the Art Museum. I had never seen such a beak before in my life! It is yellow tipped, and the rest is very red and almost plastic looking, quite a sight! I have learned since that they are part of the rail family of birds, or Rallidae. It was a beautiful day, Mable's rose garden was fragrant and I "visited" my great uncle's painting in the museum. I am very blessed.

"Each day a precious gift. Each moment an eternal joy."
-unknown