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Nigel Key Coot
(Slimbridge August 2010)
The Coot is a member of the Rallidae family (rail) and is related to the Moorhen.
The face shield on the Coot is featherless and gives rise to the expression ‘bald as a coot’.
The large feet of the Coot allow them to walk easily on soft and uneven ground. Whereas the Coot can walk and run well they are not very good fliers due to their small rounded wings.
Conservation Status
Size
360mm to 380mm (14" to 15")
Appearance - Male
The male has mainly Black/Grey plumage with White face shield and bill. They have Silver/Grey long lobed toes and strong legs.
Appearance - Female
Similar to the male.
Habitat
Lakes, Rivers, Marshlands and Ponds.
Diet
Vegetation, Seeds, small animals and eggs.
Breeding Time
March.
Nest
Built in shallow water from vegetation.
Eggs
Quantity: 6 to 12
Colour: Yellow/Grey with Brown speckles.
