376 
Birds. 
THE COOT. (Fulicaatra.) 
This bird has so many traits in its character, and so 
many features in its general appearance like the rails 
and water-hens, that to place it after them seems a 
natural and easy gradation ; and accordingly this has 
been done by Cuvier, though it was considered by 
Linnaeus to belong to a group distinct from those birds, 
and from the waders in general, on account of its being 
fin-footed, and its constant attachment to the waters, 
which, indeed, it seldom quits. The manner in which 
Coots build their nest is very ingenious. They form it 
of interwoven aquatic weeds, and place it among the 
rushes, in such a way that it may occasionally rise with, 
but not be washed away by, the stream : and if ever this 
accident happens, steady on her nest, the hen does not 
desert her brood, but follows with them the destiny of 
their floating cradle. This bird, in the figure and shape 
of its body, resembles the water-hen, and weighs about 
twenty-four ounces. The feathers about the head and 
neck are low, soft, and thick. The colour about the 
whole of the body is black, but of a deeper hue about 
the head. The sere rises upon the forehead in a peculiar 
manner, and appears as if Providence had designed it 
for a means of defence. It changes its whitish colour 
to a pale red or pink in the breeding season. Coots are 
very shy, and seldom venture abroad before dusk. When 
attacked, they defend themselves with their feet, and they 
do this so energetically, that sportsmen say, " Beware of 
a winged Coot, or he will scratch you like a cat." 
