With its coal-black body, stark white facial shield, and bright red eyes, the Eurasian Coot looks like it's wearing a minimalist wetsuit — ready to make a splash. Native to Europe, Asia, and parts of North Africa, it’s a common sight in lakes, ponds, and wetlands, where it paddles with purpose and attitude.
Though often mistaken for a duck, the Eurasian Coot belongs to the rail family. It’s a strong swimmer and a surprisingly aggressive defender of its territory — known to chase off intruders with flapping wings and loud calls.
Coots build floating nests hidden among reeds, and both parents fiercely protect and feed their chicks. Despite their grumpy reputation, they’re attentive parents and loyal partners.
Equipped with lobed toes instead of webbed feet, they walk clumsily on land but maneuver gracefully in water. Not just survivors but adaptors, coots thrive even in city parks and urban ponds.
Feisty, adaptable, and unmistakably stylish in black and white, the Eurasian Coot is a wetland warrior full of character.