Red-Knobbed Coot, Fulica cristata

The red-knobbed coot has all black plumage with a white bill and frontal shield. 2 Red knobs are found on the head, at the top. It has grey legs and red eyes. These red knobs are more conspicuous during the breeding season. As a swimming bird, its toes are partially webbed.

The female is around the size of a small chicken, 39 cm long. The male is larger.
They feed mainly on plant matter but will occasionally eat insects.

The coot is a highly territorial species and will try and bully any intruders, even geese up to twice their size. Sometimes it seems they are running across the water without flying.

Monogamous, the red-knobbed coot builds a floating nest on a mound of vegetation and lay up to 8 eggs at a time.

“Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature. It will never fail you.” ~Frank Lloyd Write

Thank you very much for taking the time to read my post. I hope you also learned something new today.

Have a fabulous day. Till next time, please stay safe and healthy.

Coreen