American Coot
NameAmerican Coot
Common NameAmerican Coot
Scientific NameFulica americana
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)64.5
Length (cm)38.5
Weight (g)637.5
Plumage DetailsAdults have a sooty gray to black body, a bright white bill, and a small, reddish-brown frontal shield above the bill. Their eyes are dark red, and they have a conspicuous white patch under their tail.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of clucking, squawking, and cackling sounds, often described as 'kuh-kuh-kuh' or 'puk-puk-puk'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsfreshwater lakes, ponds, marshes, wetlands, slow-moving rivers
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across North and Central America, breeding from southern Canada through the United States and into parts of Central America. Northern populations migrate south for winter.
Identifying Featuresdark, slate-gray body, white bill with a reddish-brown frontal shield, red eyes, lobed feet (not webbed), white undertail patch, head-bobbing swimming motion
Description
The American Coot is a common waterbird with a dark, duck-like body and a distinctive white bill. They are often seen swimming in freshwater habitats, frequently bobbing their heads and engaging in aggressive interactions, as depicted in the image.
