American Coot

Size - 15": Slate colored duck like bird. The white bill has a partial ring around it.

Coots are found in fresh water ponds throughout the county. Often in similar areas as the Common Moorhen. They feed by a combination of diving and dipping like a duck. They will often chase other birds from their nesting area by running across the top of the water after them. They are found here year round and I have seen them swimming with young, but I have yet to find a nest.