The Common Coot is a familiar and widespread water bird found throughout the UK. Recognisable by its dark plumage and distinctive white frontal shield, the coot is a common resident of lakes, ponds, rivers, and marshes. These birds are known for their aggressive behaviour and loud calls, often seen swimming and diving in open water.

How to Identify a Common Coot:

• Head: Black head with a prominent white frontal shield extending from the beak to the forehead.
• Body: The body is predominantly black or dark grey, with a slight gloss in good light.
• Beak: White beak that matches the colour of the frontal shield.
• Wings: Dark grey to black wings with no distinctive markings. In flight, the coot shows a white trailing edge on the wings.
• Legs: Greyish legs with large, lobed toes adapted for swimming.

Description and Statistics:

• Size: 36-38cm in length.
• Wingspan: 70-80cm.
• Weight: 0.7-1.2kg.
• Sexual Dimorphism: Males and females look similar, though males are slightly larger on average.

Breeding, Nesting and Rearing Habits:

• Coots are usually monogamous, forming long-term pair bonds.
• They build nests in shallow water, anchored to vegetation. Nests are made from plant material and can be quite large.
• The female lays a clutch of 6-10 eggs, which both parents incubate for about 21-24 days.
• Chicks are precocial and leave the nest shortly after hatching. Both parents help feed and protect the chicks until they are independent.

The Common Coot in the UK:

The Common Coot is native to the UK and has a stable population across the country. They are resident year-round but can be joined by migrants from northern and eastern Europe during the winter. Their adaptability to different wetland habitats, both natural and man-made, ensures their widespread presence.

Sources:

• The RSPB: https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/wildlife-guides/bird-a-z/coot/
• The British Trust for Ornithology: https://www.bto.org/understanding-birds/birdfacts/coot