Fulica atra · Irish: Cearc Cheannann
An all-black waterbird with a brilliant white "bald" shield on its forehead.
Habitat: Lakes, larger ponds and slow rivers, especially with open water. | Season: All year
Aggressively territorial in the breeding season, with dramatic surface skirmishes between rivals; dives for water plants, unlike the dabbling Moorhen.
Coot chicks hatch with strikingly bright orange-red downy heads — thought to help parents decide which hungry chick to feed first in a crowded, competitive brood.
| Date Spotted | Location | Notes |
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