- SCIENTIFIC NAME
- Fulica americana
- CLASSIFICATION
- Bird
- LIFE SPAN
- 5-9 Years
- SIZE
- 15.5-17” | 1.3-1.5lbs
- STATE CONSERVATION STATUS
-
- State Protected
- FEDERAL CONSERVATION STATUS
- Least Concern
- GAME STATUS
- Game
- GAME TYPE
- Waterfowl
- Washoe
- Humboldt
- Pershing
- Churchill
- Mineral
- Lyon
- Douglas
- Carson City
- Storey
- Elko
- Lander
- Eureka
- White Pine
- Esmeralda
- Nye
- Lincoln
- Clark
Habitat & Range
The American Coot can be found in a wide range of wetland and freshwater habitats, ranging from large lakes to flooded prairies. Wetland habitat offering abundant aquatic vegetation and shallow shorelines is generally preferred.
- Lakes and reservoirs
- Marsh
Threats
- Drought
- Habitat Degradation
- Habitat Loss
- Water Diversion
Natural History
American Coots eat aquatic plants such as duckweed, algae, and waterlilies. They also occasionally eat insects and invertebrates. Males and females work together to build a nest and both care for the eggs and chicks. The nests are built with a ramp leading into the water so chicks can easily get in and out. Because of their shorter wings, they have to make a running start on the top of the water in order to get enough lift to fly.
Fun Facts
Coots have lobed feet instead of webbed feet, which allows them to walk effectively on muddy areas but also swim well.
OTHER Species
