140 
AMERICAN COOT 
221. Fulica americana. 1d in. 
Bill and frontal shield as in the gallinules, but the 
bill is whitish with a blackish ring near the tip; each 
individual toe is furnished with a large scalloped web; 
otherwise their plumage is grayish like that of the 
Florida Gallinule. Coots are, locally, very abundant 
throughout temperate North America in summer. Like 
gallinules, they inhabit reedy pools, sluggish streams 
and boggy marshes, where they are at least safe from 
human pursuit. They conceal themselves among the 
reeds, so as to escape observation, taking wing only 
when they are obliged to. They are expert swimmers, 
and can dive and swim for long distances under water; 
in this respect they have a decided advantage over the 
rails and gallinules. 
Nest.—Like that of the gallinules; 6 to 15 grayish 
egos, finely speckled with black (1.80x1.30).  May,, 
June. 
Range.—Breeds throughout temperate America, rare 
on the North Atlantic coast; winters in southern U. 8. 
