Coots are related to moorhens, but they do not compete for food and are often found in the same habitat.

Statistics
Length: 36-42cm.

Physical description
Coots are round-bodied, short-tailed birds with large legs. When swimming, they resemble a duck. They are covered in black feathers except for the bill and forehead, which are white. The feet are grey and rather large, and the toes are lobed.

Distribution
Coots are distributed throughout Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia.

Habitat
They inhabit highly vegetated lakes and ponds.

Diet
Coots feed on small aquatic animals, seeds and plants.

Behaviour
Coots dive below the surface, to depths of up to 2m, when searching for food such as insect larvae. When they take off from the water, they run along the surface, splashing their feet. They are sociable birds and are often found in flocks feeding together on ponds. Coots are territorial, and will swim menacingly towards intruders. Some coots overwinter in northern harbours, others migrate to west Europe.

Reproduction
The nest is built of reeds at the edge of reedbeds, and is often visible. The female lays 5-15 speckled eggs. After 22 days, the chicks hatch. They are dark brown and fluffy, with an orange- and blue-coloured head.

Conservation status
Coots are not listed by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Voice
Coots have a wide repertoire of calls, including a loud 'kowk' monosyllable, an explosive 'pitts!' sound and a trumpeting 'pe pe-eu' call when flying around their territory.

Notes
A group of coots is known as a ‘cover’.