The American Coot is a species of rail that lives in wetlands and open water across the United States as well as parts of Canada and central America. They have dark grey bodies with a white facial shield, which has a reddish central spot. They feed by foraging or diving in the water, or foraging on land.
Coot feet are not webbed; instead the toes are lobed which aids in swimming.
Coots are highly territorial during mating and breeding season and also highly aggressive in defending both territory and their young.
American Coots scoot or run across the water or ground before taking flight, which requires a lot of effort. Once airborne, however, they are strong fliers with impressive stamina.
