Coot (Fulica atra) well recognizable among other waterfowl. Its distinguishing feature is a white beak and a large leathery white spot on its forehead, as well as red eyes. This bird is comparable in size to a duck, the body is about 35-38 centimeters, and the weight rarely exceeds 1 kilogram. It has a matte black, matte gray, color.
In Belarus, the coot rarely stays for the winter, but in spring the bird can be seen on many large reservoirs, including in the capital.
Since the coot spends most of its time on the water, the main diet consists of various algae, small fish, and insect larvae. However, this bird can easily get food on the ground.
Coots breed large offspring, sometimes several times a year. The chicks are covered with gray down and at first have a yellowish beak.
Watch also the video with the Coot (Fulica atra):
