Fulica

Fulica is a genus of birds in the rail family Rallidae, commonly known as coots. They occur in freshwater and brackish wetlands across many regions, with about 20 described species. In traditional classifications, Rallidae is placed in the order Gruiformes; some modern systems move it to Charadriiformes.

Coots are medium-sized water birds with dark plumage, a short neck, and a distinctive white frontal shield that extends onto the bill in most species. They have lobed toes rather than fully webbed feet, adapted for swimming, treading, and diving.

Fulica species inhabit lakes, ponds, marshes, and slow rivers, from temperate to tropical regions. They are found worldwide except Antarctica. Their distribution varies by species, with some occupying inland wetlands and others preferring coastal brackish habitats.

Ecology and behavior: They are omnivorous, feeding on aquatic vegetation, seeds, invertebrates, and occasional small vertebrates. They forage by swimming, dabbling, and diving, often forming flocks outside the breeding season. Nests are constructed on floating vegetation or submerged debris, and both parents incubate eggs (typically 4–12) and care for the precocial chicks.

Etymology and conservation: The genus name Fulica is from Latin, meaning coot. The conservation status of Fulica species ranges from least concern to threatened, depending on habitat loss, pollution, and introduced predators. Overall, coots are common in suitable wetlands and are familiar indicators of wetland health.