The American Coot is a medium-sized waterbird found across North America. It has a distinctive dark plumage, a white bill, and a short tail. Coots are often seen swimming in ponds, lakes, and marshes, where they feed on aquatic plants, seeds, and insects. These birds are known for their unique diving abilities and can submerge themselves to forage for food. The American Coot is a member of the rail family, which includes other birds like moorhens and rails. They are often mistaken for ducks but have a more compact body and a different swimming style.