It may look like a duck on water, but the American Coot belongs to the rail family. They have chicken-like feet rather than webbed feet and walk on land rather than waddle like a duck. Known also as the “Marsh Hen” or “Mud Hen,” the American Coot is notable for its dark gray body, black head, red eyes, and black-tipped white bill. The American Coot doesn’t get much respect in the bird world, but I find it very striking.
The American Coot is a member of the rail family.
