An American Coot stands on a small log as the sun sets over the Orlando Wetlands in Christmas, FL.

American Coot (Fulica americana)

Often mistaken for a duck, the American Coot is a common waterbird. Its all black body and white chicken-like beak distinguish this swimming rail from the real ducks.
Although it swims like a duck, the American Coot does not have webbed feet like a duck. Instead of having all the toes connected by webs, each coot toe has lobes on the sides of each segment.
An awkward and often clumsy flier, the coot requires long running takeoffs across the water’s surface to become airborne. It is, however, an accomplished swimmer and diver.
This is a raucous and quarrelsome bird whose presence is often announced by its loud cackling, grunting, and croaking calls.