The horned coot is a species of bird found in the Andes of South America. It was described by Bonaparte in 1853 based on a specimen collected in Bolivia. For a long time it was known only from the type specimen.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs on the Andean Altiplano of southwestern Bolivia, northern Chile, and northwestern Argentina. It inhabits shallow, often saline or brackish high-elevation lakes with sparse emergent vegetation. Breeding sites are typically remote basins with broad, gently sloping shorelines where stone mounds can be constructed. Outside breeding, it remains on similar lakes and occasionally uses nearby wetlands and bofedales. Human disturbance is generally low, but water extraction and shoreline changes can affect local occupancy.
Altitude Range
3500–5200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This high-Andean coot is notable for its upright, horn-like frontal shield that can be raised during courtship displays. It famously builds massive stone mounds in shallow lakes to anchor its nests and encourage plant growth, a rare behavior among birds. For decades it was known only from its Bolivian type specimen before more populations were documented across the Altiplano. It remains a specialized species of remote, windswept lakes at very high elevations.
Lake with two nests in the water close to the shoreline
Temperament
generally wary and territorial around nest sites
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flight after a running takeoff
Social Behavior
Outside the breeding season it may gather in small groups on suitable lakes, but pairs defend space near their nests. Monogamous pairs construct large stone mounds that rise above the waterline and then add vegetation on top. Nests are placed on these platforms, and both adults participate in building and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud, abrupt croaks, grunts, and honks that carry over open water. Calls intensify during territorial disputes and courtship, with repeated, emphatic notes.
