Common Moorhen

Overview

The common moorhen, also known as the waterhen, is a midsized to large bird species in the rail family (Rallidae). It is a widespread and abundant species across Africa, Europe, and Asia, generally considered one of the most common Old World rails alongside the Eurasian coot. The species is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, although some localised populations are facing threats.

Identification

• Predominantly black and brown plumage with a white under-tail and white streaks on the flanks.
• Distinctive red frontal shield and red bill tipped with yellow, accompanied by yellow legs.
• Length ranges from 30 to 38 cm with a wingspan of 50 to 62 cm, and a body mass between 192 and 500 g.
• Produces a wide range of gargling calls and emits loud hisses when threatened.

Habitat

The species inhabits well-vegetated marshes, ponds, canals, and other wetland environments, and can even be found in city parks. Its distribution covers much of the Old World, excluding polar regions and many tropical rainforests. While many populations are resident, those in regions with freezing winters, such as eastern Europe and northern China, migrate to more temperate climates.

Diet

This species consumes a wide variety of vegetable material and small aquatic creatures. It forages beside or in the water, sometimes walking on lily pads or upending in the water to feed. Moorhens are often secretive but can become tame in certain areas.

Did you know?

When threatened, the young may cling to the adult birds' bodies while the parents fly away to safety, carrying their offspring with them. The species also engages in interspecific nest parasitism, laying eggs in the nests of unrelated birds such as common coots, grey partridges, and mallards.