Typical Moorhens

Typical moorhens are medium-sized water birds known for their red front plates and bills that have yellow tips. These features make them easy to tell apart from their close relatives, the coots. There are about a dozen different types found around the world, living in both warm and cooler areas. You can find them in Europe, Africa, Asia, the Americas, and on many islands. Most moorhens have mainly dark feathers with some white under their tails and on their sides, but the exact pattern changes depending on the type. They live in freshwater wetlands, preferring areas with plenty of plants by the edges of ponds, lakes, slow rivers, and marshes. Depending on where they live, some stay in one place all year, while others move around at certain times. Moorhens are good at swimming and walking. Their long toes help them walk on floating plants. They can fly well, but usually prefer to stay low and close to the water when they do. During the breeding season, they defend their territory and make unique calls that differ from one type to another.