Page 14 - Boardwalk Meander Issue 3

NATURE

RED-KNOBBED COOT
Afrikaans: Bleshoender

A common sight in dams, lakes and pans, the Red-knobbed Coot is a medium-
sized waterbird. Characterised by a black body, white underbelly and a
prominent red knob on its forehead, this bird is not the most agile flier, capable
only of short bursts of flight. They spend most of their time on the water's
surface, feeding on a varied diet of aquatic plants and small invertebrates.
Interestingly, Red-knobbed Coots possess the remarkable ability to run on water
to escape predators. They achieve this feat by propelling themselves with rapid
leg movements while using their wings for balance.

PHOTOGRAPH BY WWW.IVANMULLERPHOTOGRAPHY.COM
INSTAGRAM: IVANS.BIRD.PICS

12
Boardwalk Meander Estate Issue 3 · 2024