Common Moorhen
Buckpool and Fens Pool Local Nature Reserve
What3Words
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The common moorhen (Gallinula chloropus), also known as the waterhen or common gallinule, is a widespread and adaptable water bird in the rail family (Rallidae). It is commonly found around well-vegetated freshwater habitats across Europe, Africa, and Asia, and is a familiar sight in urban parks, ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers.
Size: Moorhens are medium-sized birds, typically 32–35 cm (12–14 inches) in length, with a wingspan of around 50–55 cm (20–22 inches).
Plumage: Adults have a dark, slate-grey to olive-brown body with a blue-black belly. A distinguishing feature is the white stripe along their flanks and bold white patches under their short tail, which they flick nervously while walking or swimming.
Head and Beak: They have a striking bright red beak with a yellow tip, which extends upwards into a red frontal shield on the forehead.
Legs and Feet: They have long, yellowish-green legs and feet with long, chicken-like toes that allow them to walk easily on soft mud and floating vegetation.
Common Moorhen
Buckpool and Fens Pool Local Nature Reserve
What3Words
///thin.spill.bravo
The common moorhen (Gallinula chloropus), also known as the waterhen or common gallinule, is a widespread and adaptable water bird in the rail family (Rallidae). It is commonly found around well-vegetated freshwater habitats across Europe, Africa, and Asia, and is a familiar sight in urban parks, ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers.
Size: Moorhens are medium-sized birds, typically 32–35 cm (12–14 inches) in length, with a wingspan of around 50–55 cm (20–22 inches).
Plumage: Adults have a dark, slate-grey to olive-brown body with a blue-black belly. A distinguishing feature is the white stripe along their flanks and bold white patches under their short tail, which they flick nervously while walking or swimming.
Head and Beak: They have a striking bright red beak with a yellow tip, which extends upwards into a red frontal shield on the forehead.
Legs and Feet: They have long, yellowish-green legs and feet with long, chicken-like toes that allow them to walk easily on soft mud and floating vegetation.