American Coot

Waterfowl | Season: CLOSED

Field Reference: American Coot

Dull-colored, chicken-like water birds with white bills and lobed feet.

Dense vegetation at the edges of the reservoir and slow-moving marshy areas.

Frequently seen "pumping" their heads while swimming. They are reluctant fliers, preferring to patter across the water.

Often taken as a bonus bird by duck hunters. Focus on the edges of lily pads and thick weed beds.

Coots are not actually ducks; they are members of the Rail family, as evidenced by their lobed toes rather than webbed feet.