The American Coots have broad, lobed scales on their lower legs and toes that fold back with each step in order to facilitate walking on dry land. Coots live near water, typically inhabiting wetlands and open water bodies in North America. American Coots eat primarily algae and other aquatic plants but also animals when available.
Fun Fact Studies have found that mothers will preferentially feed offspring with the brightest plume feathers, a characteristic known as chick ornaments.