80-400mm AF-S Lens Chatter - D7200 vs D7500

Has anyone here has any experience with the issue / phenomenon of the lens "chatter" of the AF-S 80-400mm? This is referring to when the camera is in AF-C focus mode, the lens tends to "chatter" and go in and out of focus rapidly when on a stationary, or relatively stationary object. This usually results in a mix of shots that are in-focus and slightly out-of-focus.

I am experiencing this phenomenon consistently with this lens on my new D7200. I was wondering if it would be any different on a D7500. I know their focusing systems are different. Curious if anyone has any input. Thanks.

Welcome aboard. Enjoy the ride.
We look forward to seeing more posts and samples of your work.

Do you have access to another camera body or lens. If so, try and determine if the lens acts up on other bodies or if other lenses act up on your D7200.

Welcome to the forum,have you tried AFS in AFC are you using single point if not depending on what your focusing on it could be trying to refocus on different parts of the subject.

It only happens when using AF-S mode (totally fine in AF-C or AF-A). I am using single focus point. I've been pointing it mostly at stationary birds, but it will also happen with something more still, like a flower. I do have my old D5000 that I will try it with to see if the same thing happens. Thanks for the suggestion.