Moorhen

This bird was photographed at Martin Mere WWT 2006.

Moorhen
Gallinula chloropus
The moorhen is a medium-sized, ground-dwelling bird, that is usually found near water. From a distance it looks black with a ragged white line along its body. Up close it is olive-brown on the back and the head and underneath are blue-grey. It has a red bill with a yellow tip. It breeds in the UK in lowland areas, especially in central and eastern England. It is scarce in northern Scotland and the uplands of Wales and northern England. UK breeding birds are residents and seldom travel far.

Where does it live?
Breeding
Freshwater lakes, rivers, ditches, small ponds; even in urban areas,
Wintering
As breeding
Passage
As breeding
Where to see it
There’s a chance of seeing a moorhen anywhere where there is water – from a small ditch or a lake in a city centre park, to a big lake or reservoir.
What does it eat?
Water plants, seeds, fruit, grasses, insects, snails and worms.
What does it sound like?
It's most familiar call is a loud, abrupt ‘kurr’uk’.
When to see it
All year round.
Similar species
Coot, Water rail
http://www.naturesongs.com/moorhen2.wav