Innovative Coot on nest with juveniles, Fulica atra ...and a Covid-19 face mask!

            'Stay Alert, Control the Virus'. Mrs Coot teaches her children the new rules regarding face coverings! ... 

A sign of our strange times as we move towards the new normal ... discarded face coverings being used as birds nesting material!

Many thanks for visiting my Flickr pages ...Your visits, interest, comments and kindness to 'fave' my photos is very much appreciated, Steve.

Notes:-
A familiar black bird of our lakes, ponds and rivers, the Coot is widespread; look out for its large and untidy-looking nest on the water in spring. The Coot can be distinguished from the similar Moorhen by its white beak and 'shield', and its entirely black body.

Species information
Category: Wading birds

Statistics
Length: 36-40cm
Wingspan: 75cm
Weight: 800g
Average lifespan: 5 years

Conservation status
Common. Classified in the UK as Green under the Birds of Conservation Concern 4: the Red List for Birds (2015). Protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981.
When to seeL January to December

About
A familiar bird of our wetlands, the Coot is often seen on park lakes, ponds and rivers. It spends more of its time on the water than its relative, the Moorhen, and will dive to catch small invertebrates. Unlike ducks, Coots will bring their catch to the surface before eating it, leading to squabbles over food. Coots breed in spring, laying between six and nine eggs in nests made among emergent vegetation. Coot chicks are black with orange fluff around the face and body; they are independent within two months of hatching.

How to identify
The Coot can be distinguished from the similar-looking Moorhen by its larger size, entirely black body (with no white patches), and bright white bill. Coots spend much of their time away from the bankside, diving for food.

Distribution
Widespread across town and countryside.
Habitats
FreshwaterWetlandsTowns and gardens

Did you know?
The saying 'bald as a Coot' actually refers to the white patch, or 'frontal shield', just above the bird's bill, rather than lack of feathers. Coots are also known locally as 'Bald Coots' and 'White-faced Divers'.

How people can help
The Wildlife Trusts manage many wetland nature reserves for the benefit of the wildlife they support. You can help by supporting your local Trust and becoming a member; you'll find out about exciting wildlife news, events on your doorstep and volunteering opportunities, and will be helping local wildlife along the way.
   

Taken on: May 24, 2020

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Sets appears in: • Faves, Personal • Coot - Fulica atra

Groups appears in: • BBC Wildlife aspirations • Birds of Britain and the Western Palearctic more » • COVID-19 Face Masks « less

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