The Red-Knobbed Coot (Fulica cristata), or Crested Coot. is a black bird with two red knobs on its head, above the white frontal shield. The knobs are small and are often difficult to see.
The Red-Knobbed Coot is medium-sized with a black rounded body and short tail. Its head has darker black feathers. It has a creamy-grey beak and grey legs. It has partial webbing on its toes, which enables it to swim and to walk on swampy land near water. It has round red eyes.
The Red-Knobbed Coot grows to 38-45 centimetres (15-18 inches) tall.
It lives near freshwater lakes and ponds in Africa and southern Spain.
The Red-Knobbed Coot builds its nest of reeds and grass near the edge of the water. The female lays about 8 eggs.
Red-Knobbed Coot with partially webbed feet
It does not fly very much. It prefers to run when there is danger.
It is an omnivore because it eats small animals as well as grass and water weeds. It also eats eggs belonging to other birds.
Red-Knobbed Coot
Red-Knobbed Coot
Red-Knobbed Coot
Photographer: Martina Nicolls
Martina Nicolls: SIMILAR BUT DIFFERENT IN THE ANIMAL KINGDOM