Eurasin Coot
Autumn is here.
Buckpool and Fens Pool Local Nature Reserve
What3Words
///thin.spill.bravo
The Eurasian Coot (Fulica atra) is a common, distinctive waterbird known for its all-black plumage and a conspicuous white bill and frontal shield, which gives rise to the phrase "as bald as a coot". A member of the rail family (Rallidae), it is found across Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and parts of North Africa.
Appearance: Adults are entirely sooty-black with a bright white bill and a "shield" or blaze on their forehead. They have striking red eyes. Their feet are a distinguishing feature, with large, lobed toes that help them swim effectively and walk on land, unlike the webbed feet of ducks.
Feet: Unlike ducks, which have webbed feet, coots have large, grey, lobed toes. These lobes help them swim efficiently and also allow them to walk and run well on land or soft, muddy ground.
Size: They are around 36-38 cm in length with a wingspan of 70-80 cm.
Habitat: Coots are widespread and commonly found on shallow, still or slow-moving freshwater bodies such as lakes, ponds, reservoirs, and canals, often in urban park settings.
Eurasin Coot
Autumn is here.
Buckpool and Fens Pool Local Nature Reserve
What3Words
///thin.spill.bravo
The Eurasian Coot (Fulica atra) is a common, distinctive waterbird known for its all-black plumage and a conspicuous white bill and frontal shield, which gives rise to the phrase "as bald as a coot". A member of the rail family (Rallidae), it is found across Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and parts of North Africa.
Appearance: Adults are entirely sooty-black with a bright white bill and a "shield" or blaze on their forehead. They have striking red eyes. Their feet are a distinguishing feature, with large, lobed toes that help them swim effectively and walk on land, unlike the webbed feet of ducks.
Feet: Unlike ducks, which have webbed feet, coots have large, grey, lobed toes. These lobes help them swim efficiently and also allow them to walk and run well on land or soft, muddy ground.
Size: They are around 36-38 cm in length with a wingspan of 70-80 cm.
Habitat: Coots are widespread and commonly found on shallow, still or slow-moving freshwater bodies such as lakes, ponds, reservoirs, and canals, often in urban park settings.