Eurasian Coot vs African Swamphen

Fulica atra compared with Porphyrio madagascariensis

Side-by-Side Comparison

Attribute Eurasian Coot African Swamphen
Scientific Name Fulica atra Porphyrio madagascariensis
Order Gruiformes Gruiformes
Family Rallidae Rallidae
Conservation Status Least Concern Not Evaluated
Length — —
Wingspan 39.6 cm (15.6 in) —
Weight 722.8333333333334 g (25.50 oz) 608.0 g (21.45 oz)
Diet -- --
Clutch Size 6-10 2-6
Population Trend — —

Habitat Comparison

Shared Habitats

Eurasian Coot only

None

African Swamphen only

None

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Eurasian Coot

Not Evaluated

African Swamphen

About These Birds

Eurasian Coot

Eurasian Coot (Fulica atra) is a 36–42 cm abundant, all-black waterbird of Eurasia, Australia, and North Africa. Distinctive white frontal shield and bill stand out against slaty-black plumage. Inhabits freshwater lakes, reservoirs, and large ponds. Aggressive; chases rivals with wing-beating. Feeds on aquatic vegetation, invertebrates, and algae.

African Swamphen

African Swamphen (Porphyrio madagascariensis) is a 38–50 cm large gallinule of sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar. Deep blue-purple with greenish back, massive red bill and frontal shield, and red legs. Inhabits papyrus swamps, lake shores, and dense reed beds. Similar to Purple Swamphen but restricted to Africa.

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