(Fulica atra)
Length: 32-39 cm Common
These communal birds occur widely on wetlands. They are easily identified by their white bill and lobed toes. They spend most of the time on open sheets of water, where they up-end or dive for plant material and they often come ashore to graze. They are capable of sustained flight. Long distance movements of this nomadic bird appear to take place at night.
They will breed if food if available. The Coot is aggressive to other species at mating time. Mating displays on open water involve much pursuit, calling and striking the water with the wings and is followed by pair bonding. It breeds usually between August and February. Nest a loose clump of twigs, sticks and plant matter often approached by a ramp. Eggs: 4 to 15; sandy grey to clay colour.
