The Common Gallinule is a chicken-like waterbird with a bright red-and-yellow bill shield that bobs its head while swimming. It walks on lily pads and floating vegetation with large feet that distribute its weight. Young from earlier broods help parents feed their younger siblings — a rare form of cooperative breeding.
Habitat
Freshwater marshes, ponds, and lake edges with emergent vegetation
Diet
Aquatic plants, seeds, insects, and snails
How common
Common
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