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Tuesday, November 24, 2020

Advice From Owlie - American Coot

 Q: Dear Owlie,

Do you have any fun facts to share about the animals I might see at the park? I’m planning to visit with my family soon and want to be able to share some of this information with them!

Sincerely,

Animal Lover


A: Dear Animal Lover,

I can’t wait to see you and your family at the park! The Chino Creek Wetlands is home to a wide variety of animal species, but one of my favorites is definitely the American Coot.

The American Coot is easily distinguished from other ducks and birds due to its dark black feathers and white beak. While you’ll likely spot the American Coot swimming in one of our ponds, the American Coot is not a duck, it is actually a bird! We know this because unlike ducks, the American Coot does not have webbed feet. Instead, they have long toes which help them effortlessly paddle through the water.

During the warmer months, you can find the American Coot snacking on the duckweed floating on top of the ponds, but in the colder months when the duckweed tends to sink to the bottom, American Coots may be seen feasting on other plants or insects.

Let me know if you or your family happen to spot an American Coot on your visit to the park and be sure to follow safety guidelines while you’re there!

Talk to you all soo(HOO)n!

Owlie