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How to Spot an American Coot

The American Coot, a water bird found throughout North America, resembles a duck at first glance. However, there's some important differences between ducks and the American Coot. Here's how to identify an American Coot.

Instructions

- 1
  Spot an American Coot during breeding season in the summer throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. This bird winters in the northern United States and on southward, along the coasts of Canada, in Mexico, the Caribbean and Central America. American Coots live near ponds, swamps, bays, inlets and marshes.
- 2
  Learn about the size of the American Coot. These water birds are medium sized, averaging 15 inches in length. They weigh around 25 oz. and have a wingspan between 23 to 28 inches.
- 3
  Observe the American Coot's appearance. This bird has an all black body with yellow legs and a white stripe underneath its square tail. The white beak is triangular shaped, with a black mark near the tip. An American Coot's feet and toes are lobed and not webbed like a duck. The wings are broad and pointed.
- 4
  Listen to the American Coot's sounds at What Bird. (See link in Resources.) This particular bird makes a variety of sounds including grunts, clucks and crackles.
- 5
  Look for this water bird swimming on the surface of the water or diving beneath the surface in the search of food. Rapid wing beats characterize the direct and swift flight of the American Coot. Notice the bird's feet protruding from behind the bird when it flies.

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