Red-knobbed Coot

The Red-knobbed Coot is a species of rail that lives across Africa and parts of southern Spain. Like other coots, they live on freshwater lakes and ponds. They are black all over with white facial shields. The birds develop two large red knobs at the top of the facial shield during breeding season.

Like other species of coot, they bob their heads when swimming or walking, similar to chickens.

They can be agressive during breeding season, defending their territory and offspring from other coots.

Red-knobbed Coots are omnivorous. They feed by grazing on land or water, or diving in the water.