American Coot
Image: utah_klaus (cc-by-nc)
NameAmerican Coot
Common NameAmerican Coot
Scientific NameFulica americana
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)64.5
Length (cm)38.5
Weight (g)670
Plumage DetailsAdult American Coots have a dark slate-gray to black body, head, and neck. They possess a striking white bill with a dark band near the tip and a prominent white frontal shield that extends onto the forehead, often with a small reddish-brown spot at the top. Their legs are greenish-yellow with large, lobed toes.
Vocalization / CallAmerican Coots produce a variety of calls, including sharp, nasal 'kuh-kuh-kuh' notes, clucking sounds, and squawking alarm calls. They can also emit a high-pitched 'puk-puk-puk' or 'poo-poo-poo'.
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 Mexico, and extending into parts of Central America and the Caribbean. Northern populations migrate south for the winter.
Identifying FeaturesDark slate-gray body plumage, White bill with a dark band, Prominent white frontal shield (often with a reddish-brown spot), Greenish-yellow legs with lobed toes, Head-bobbing swimming motion
Description
The American Coot is a common, duck-like water bird with a distinctive dark slate-gray body, a white bill, and a prominent white frontal shield. They are often seen swimming on open water, nodding their heads, and diving for aquatic vegetation.
