Red-knobbed Coot (Fulica cristata)

16 inches long.

Red knob swells when breeding.

Found from Southern Africa, north though eastern Africa to Ethiopia, and in southern Spain and Morocco. Not in West Africa.

Common on large sheets of water.

Eats insects and water plants.

Builds a large cup shaped nest of reeds or trailing water plants in shallow water, often unconcealed. Also makes “false nests” or resting platforms on which no eggs are laid.

Photographed at Emmarentia Dam, Johannesburg, South Africa.