American Coot
Image: Scott Buckel (cc-by-nc)
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 distinctive white bill, and a prominent dark reddish-brown frontal shield above the bill. They also have a subtle white band near the tip of the bill and white undertail coverts.
Vocalization / CallAmerican Coots produce a variety of short, sharp, clucking, cackling, and squawking calls, often described as 'puk-puk-puk' or 'kuh-kuh-kuh'. They can also make a high-pitched 'kreek' sound.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsfreshwater marshes, ponds, lakes, slow-moving rivers, estuaries
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across North America, breeding from southern Canada through the United States and into Central America. They winter in the southern United States, Mexico, and parts of the Caribbean.
Identifying Featuresdark gray/black body, white bill, dark red frontal shield, lobed feet (not webbed), head-bobbing while swimming
Description
The American Coot is a common waterbird with a dark, duck-like body but a chicken-like head and bill. They are often seen swimming on open water, dabbling for food, or walking on shore, exhibiting a distinctive head-bobbing motion.
