Coots are medium-sized water birds that are members of the rail family, Rallidae. They constitute the genus Fulica, the name being the Latin term for "coot". Coots have predominantly black plumage, and—unlike many rails—they are usually easy to see, often swimming in open water.

Coots are much-loved members of reference to people who looked like the rail family (made up of small, wading birds) and are often mistaken for ducks. There were once two common phrases …

What's the meaning of the phrase 'As bald as a coot'? Completely bald. What's the origin of the phrase 'As bald as a coot'? Coots are water birds whose heads have the appearance of baldness. This doesn’t refer to the lack of feathers on the bird’s head, but to their white markings.

The American coot (Fulica americana), also known as a mud hen or pouldeau, is a bird of the family Rallidae. Though commonly mistaken for ducks, American coots are only distantly related to ducks, belonging to a separate order.

The American Coot is a plump, chickenlike bird with a rounded head and a sloping bill. Their tiny tail, short wings, and large feet are visible on the rare occasions they take flight.

Coots are also known locally as 'bald coots' and 'white-faced divers'. A familiar black bird of our lakes, ponds and rivers, the coot is widespread; look out for its large and untidy-looking nest on the water in spring. The coot can be distinguished from the similar Moorhen by its white beak and 'shield', and its entirely black body.

Mar 8, 2025 · Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Coots and Baldness. What is the origin of the phrase “bald as a coot?” Are coots actually bald? What does the white patch on a coot’s head look like? Are coots ducks? What do coots eat? What is another name for a coot? What does it mean when someone is called a “coot”?

Jul 1, 2021 · The phrase ‘bald as a coot’ has been around since 1430 and was made in reference to people who looked like coots, ie bald at the front of their heads. But it’s not just to do with lack of hair. The word ‘bald’ actually derives from the old English word ‘bala’, meaning ‘white patch’, which the bird’s white frontal plate ...

Coots are tough, adaptable waterbirds. Although they are related to the secretive rails, they swim in the open like ducks and walk about on shore, making themselves at home on golf courses and city park ponds.

Sep 1, 2017 · Coot chicks are covered in a thick black down with long, orange, stiff hair-like down feathers called down ornamentation. Down ornamentation along with brilliant head coloration consisting of a nearly bald scarlet crown, orange bill and blood-red shield stimulate the parents to feed begging chicks.