The American coot (Fulica americana), also known as a mud hen, is - TopicsExpress



          

The American coot (Fulica americana), also known as a mud hen, is a bird of the family Rallidae. Though commonly mistaken to be ducks, American coots belong to a distinct order. Unlike the webbed feet of ducks, coots have broad, lobed scales on their lower legs and toes that fold back with each step in order to facilitate walking on dry land.Coots live near water, typically inhabiting wetlands and open water bodies in North America. The American coot is a migratory bird that occupies most of North America. It lives in the Pacific and southwestern United States and Mexico year-round and occupies more northeastern regions during the summer breeding season. Females and males have similar appearances, but they can be distinguished during aggressive displays by the larger ruff (head plumage) on the male.
Posted on: Mon, 10 Nov 2014 05:04:33 +0000

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