BASC Handbook of Shooting by unknow

Author:unknow
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781846891274
Publisher: Quiller Publishing
Published: 2011-04-18T04:00:00+00:00

COOT

Fulica atra size: 38cm (15in)

Field identification

Medium-sized bulky waterbird, characterised by overall very dark slate-grey body colour and black head in sharp contrast to white bill and frontal shield. On water distinguished by rounded back and apparently small head. Sexes similar, juvenile dark brown above, pale brown and whitish under-parts.

Voice: call a loud, sharp kowk.

Habitat and distribution

Inhabits mainly lowland open waters and slow-flowing streams. Normally requires minimum of a half hectare (one and a quarter acres) of open water for breeding territory. Prefers shallow, nutrient-rich waters. Very large flocks occur in winter on reservoirs and other large expanses of open water, especially in southern England. Breeding population largely resident, with some movement away from higher altitudes and northern areas outside breeding season. European birds overwinter in large numbers, mainly in eastern and southern England.

Behaviour and feeding

Highly territorial and aggressive in breeding season; gregarious at other times, winter flocks often congregating into large rafts. Swims and dives easily; normally reluctant to fly, but when forced to do so takes off from water by pattering along the surface in the manner of diving ducks. Flight normally low and ungainly with neck and legs extended; generally only flies for short distances. Obtains food mainly by diving to collect plant material from middle or lower depths; dives prolonged and food brought to surface to be consumed. In winter will also graze on damp grassland areas close to open water. Diet mainly leaves, stems, etc. of aquatic plants, also some animal material.

Nest normally found among aquatic vegetation fringing open water; constructed of dead leaves from tall marsh plants.

Similar species

Only likely to be confused with moorhen; frequently associates with diving ducks, but readily distinguished from these.

Shooting season Protected in Northern Ireland.

Download

Copyright Disclaimer:
This site does not store any files on its server. We only index and link to content provided by other sites. Please contact the content providers to delete copyright contents if any and email us, we'll remove relevant links or contents immediately.