Bold as a coot!

4:41pm Friday 7th March 2008

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ONE of the most common birds found in the water fringed by reeds is the coot.

The coot is around 15 inches long and is a very aggressive bird. It dives for its food which consists of water weed as well as fish and small aquatic insects and crustaceans.

The coots dive is interesting because it makes a distinct jump to build up momentum before submerging.

The nests are made to float on water and are usually built of leaves but in some town parks I have seen them use plastic cartons and crisp packets.

Both parents incubate the clutch of between five and 15 buff-coloured eggs which are lightly spotted with black. They take just over three weeks to hatch and both parents feed the young, which are independent in about two months.

The breeding season can begin in early March but they can rear three clutches and young coots can be seen around our local ponds and reservoirs as late as November.

Adult coots are distinctive with a very dark plumage with a white frontal patch on the head which makes them look bald. We often use the term bald as a coot to describe men who are, like me, getting thinner on top!

In some parts of Britain the coot is called the Bald Duck while the old Lancashire name was Bald Pate.

Just because it is common in our area, the bird is fascinating and a graceful diver. Don't miss the chance to study the coot.