American Coot
NameAmerican Coot
Common NameAmerican Coot
Scientific NameFulica americana
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)65
Length (cm)39
Weight (g)650
Plumage DetailsAdults have a sooty gray to black body, a bright white bill with a small reddish-brown frontal shield, and red eyes. They have white undertail coverts that are often visible. Their feet are greenish-yellow with large, lobed toes, clearly visible in the image during their interaction.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of clucking, croaking, and squawking sounds. They can produce sharp 'puk-puk-puk' calls or harsher 'krr-krr-krr' notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across North America, breeding from southern Canada through the United States and Mexico, and wintering south into Central and northern South America. They are found year-round in many parts of the southern and western U.S.
Identifying FeaturesDark, slate-gray body, White bill with dark spot/shield, Red eyes, Lobed feet, White undertail patches
Description
The American Coot is a common, duck-like waterbird with a dark body and a distinctive white bill. They are highly aquatic, often seen swimming on open water, diving for food, or engaging in territorial disputes as shown in the image.
