Order: Gruiformes
Family: Rallidae
The Red-gartered Coot is a medium-sized waterbird native to southern South America, including the wetlands and lakes of Patagonia. It has a dark slate-gray body, a bright yellow bill with a frontal shield, and distinctive red bands or ‘garters’ on its legs. Social and noisy, these coots are often seen in large groups, especially during the breeding season. They build floating nests among reeds and are known for their territorial behavior. Their loud calls and conspicuous appearance make them a familiar sight in Patagonian wetlands.
Habitat
Prefers freshwater lakes, marshes, and slow-moving rivers with abundant aquatic vegetation.
Foraging
Feeds mainly on aquatic plants, diving or dabbling to reach submerged vegetation.