White-winged Coot
NameWhite-winged Coot
Common NameWhite-winged Coot
Scientific NameFulica leucoptera
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)65
Length (cm)39
Weight (g)650
Plumage DetailsPredominantly sooty black plumage with a dark grey wash on the flanks and belly. It features a bright yellow frontal shield and a yellowish bill with a dusky tip. The eyes are red, and white primary feathers are visible in flight, giving it its common name.
Vocalization / CallEmits a variety of harsh, clucking, and piping calls, often described as 'krek' or 'krr-krr-krr'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in South America, primarily in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay.
Identifying Featuresyellow frontal shield, yellowish bill with dusky tip, red eyes, sooty black plumage, white primaries (in flight)
Description
A medium-sized, dark-bodied coot characterized by its bright yellow frontal shield and bill. This aquatic bird is typically found swimming on freshwater bodies, foraging for a variety of plant matter and small invertebrates.
