Red-gartered Coot

Overview

The red-gartered coot (Fulica armillata) is a species of bird in the family Rallidae, found across parts of South America including Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, and Uruguay. It is considered a common species and is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Identification

• 43 to 51 cm long with slaty grey plumage that is blacker on the head and neck.
• Yellow bill and frontal shield with a distinct patch of red between them.
• Orange-yellow to yellow legs featuring a pale red "garter" above the ankle.
• Males produce a whistled 'huit' alarm call and an explosive 'pit' when aggressive.

Habitat

Inhabits large ponds, lakes, rivers, and marshes, and moves to sheltered marine bays in winter. Its range extends from central and southern Chile, Paraguay, and southeastern Brazil south through Argentina to Tierra del Fuego. It is generally a bird of lowlands but occurs at altitudes up to 2,100 m in northwestern Argentina.

Diet

Feeds primarily on aquatic plants, foraging by diving in open water, upending like a duck in shallow water, or grazing on land near water.

Did you know?

Fossils of this species are known from the Laguna de Tagua Tagua formation in Chile, and it has reached the Falkland Islands as a vagrant.