ExploreBirds

Eurasian Coot

Fulica atra

The Eurasian Coot is a black bird with a white beak and a funny little bump on its forehead. It loves to swim in lakes and ponds, where it dives for food and plays with its friends.

Habitat: Wetlands

Appearance

The Eurasian Coot is a medium-sized waterbird, distinct with its dull black plumage, a bright white frontal shield, and a white bill. It has striking red eyes and large, dark grey lobed toes, making it easily identifiable from ducks or other similar waterfowl.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderGruiformesFamilyRallidaeGenusFulica
Eurasian Coot
feathered trait badgewebbed_feet trait badgesocial trait badgeomnivorous trait badge
Eurasian Coot

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

A group of coots gathered together is often called a 'cootie' or a 'cover.'

Baby coots are born with bright orange-red fluff on their heads!

Coots sometimes lay eggs in the nests of other coots, a sneaky trick!

They often chase other water birds, trying to steal their food!

Special abilities

Ability

Lobed Paddler

Eurasian Coot has unique lobed feet that help them paddle efficiently and walk on soft lake bottoms.

Ability

Underwater Diver

Eurasian Coot can dive expertly underwater to forage for aquatic plants and small invertebrates.

Ability

Territorial Toughness

Eurasian Coot has aggressive displays to protect its nesting territory from rivals and predators.

Ability

Water Skimmer

Eurasian Coot can run across the water's surface for short distances when taking flight or escaping danger.

Measurements & details

Length
32-42 cm
Wingspan
70-80 cm
Weight
0.58-1.2 kg
Lifespan
6-10 years
Top Speed
50 km/h
Clutch Size
4-10
Incubation
21-24 days

Diet & Feeding

Eurasian Coots are omnivores that eat a mix of aquatic plants and small water creatures.

Age differences: Young coots eat more insects, while adults consume more plant material.

Primary Foods

  • aquatic plants
  • algae
  • insects
  • small fish
  • snails
  • tadpoles

Foraging Method

  • Foraging

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Always watch birds from a distance and don't try to touch them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Eurasian Coot?

32-42 cm

What is Eurasian Coot's wingspan?

70-80 cm

How much does Eurasian Coot weigh?

0.58-1.2 kg

How long does Eurasian Coot live?

6-10 years

How fast can Eurasian Coot move?

50 km/h

What does Eurasian Coot eat?

Eurasian Coots are omnivores that eat a mix of aquatic plants and small water creatures.

Where is Eurasian Coot usually found?

Wetlands

How does Eurasian Coot hunt?

Foraging

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Where to spot

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