A very common summer resident, found in flocks on marshes and
sloughs throughout the state. A very adaptable bird, American Coots may
also be seen waddling awkwardly in fields and lawns adjacent to water
bodies.
Habitat: Marshes and sloughs,
preferably those that also have adjacent open water. Also may feed on dry
land.
Diet: Omnivorous, eating aquatic
plants, grasses, seeds, insects, earthworms, small fish, tadpoles, snails, eggs,
and fruits and berries.
Behavior: Feeds both in the water and on land.
In the water, they may act like dabbling ducks, upending in shallow water,
or may dive underwater. They will also readily forage on land near
water bodies.
Nesting: May through July
Migration: Summers throughout much of North America. Northern populations migrate
south in the winter (including those in South Dakota).
Status: Has declined throughout much of its range
due to wetlands loss. However, they are still common where habitat is
available.
2)
Cornell University's "All About Birds - American Coot"
3)
eNature.com:
American Coot
Photo Information: April 25th, 2004 -- 4 miles west of Oldham -- Terry Sohl
Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or
text links below for additional, higher-resolution American Coot photos.
