White-winged coot

The white-winged coot is a species of bird in subfamily Rallinae of family Rallidae, the rails, gallinules, and coots. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, Uruguay, and the Falkland Islands.

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Distribution

Region

Southern Cone of South America

Typical Environment

Occurs widely from lowland pampas and coastal lagoons to Andean foothill wetlands in Argentina, Bolivia, southern Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, Uruguay, and the Falkland Islands. Prefers freshwater environments such as lakes, ponds, marshes, reservoirs, and slow rivers with abundant emergent vegetation. Will also use brackish lagoons and artificial water bodies in agricultural landscapes. Nests are typically floating platforms hidden among reeds or rushes. Frequently gathers in mixed-species flocks with other coots and waterfowl.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 3500 m

Climate Zone

Temperate

Characteristics

Size36–43 cm

Wing Span60–70 cm

Male Weight0.75 kg

Female Weight0.65 kg

Life Expectancy8 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The white-winged coot is a South American rail notable for the bold white trailing edge on its wings, which flashes in flight. It often forms large, noisy flocks on lakes and marshes and readily uses man-made wetlands like reservoirs and rice fields. Pairs build floating nests anchored in emergent vegetation. It can be confused with other coots, but the broad white in the wing is a reliable field mark.

Gallery

Illustration by Joseph Smit, 1869

Behaviour

Temperament

social and active

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with running takeoff across water

Social Behavior

Often gregarious outside the breeding season, forming sizeable rafts on open water. Breeding pairs are territorial around nest sites, which are floating platforms anchored in emergent vegetation. Monogamous pairs share nest defense and chick care, and young may form creches near protective adults.

Migratory Pattern

Partial migrant

Song Description

Vocal, giving sharp, repeated kek-kek and piping notes that carry over water. Calls accelerate during displays and alarm, with harsh squawks when defending territory.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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