Common Coot

Fulica atra

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6 recent observations

Brief #

Largely black except for the white bill and frontal shield.

Synonyms #

  • Focha común (Spanish)
  • Galiñola negra común (Galician)

Red List Status #

The Common Coot is unlikely to become extinct in the near future.
Find out more about IUCN's Red List program here

Description #

Largely black except for the white bill and frontal shield. As a swimming species, the coot has partial webbing on its long strong toes. The sexes are similar in appearance. The juvenile is paler than the adult, has a whitish breast, and lacks the facial shield; the adult black plumage develops when about 3–4 months old, but the white shield is only fully developed at about one year old.

Measurements #

Length: 36 - 38 cm
Wingspan: 70 - 80 cm
Weight: 750 - 890 g

Similar species #