Convervation status: Green Latin nameFulica atra FamilyRails (Rallidae) OverviewAll-black and larger than its cousin, the moorhen, it has a distinctive white beak and 'shield' above the beak which earns it the title 'bald'. Its feet have distinctive lobed flaps of skin on the toes, which act instead of webs when swimming. It patters noisily over the water before taking off and can be very aggressive towards others. Where to see themMainly on freshwater lakes, gravel pits, reservoirs, rivers and town park lakes when deep enough. Sometimes seen offshore, especially in winter if freshwater areas are frozen. When to see themAll year round. What they eatVegetation, snails and insect larvae. Estimated numbers| Europe | UK breeding* | UK wintering* | UK passage* |
|---|
| - | 22,600-28,800 pairs | 180,000 birds | - |
* UK breeding is the number of pairs breeding annually. UK wintering is the number of individuals present from October to March. UK passage is the number of individuals passing through on migration in spring and/or autumn. Distribution
- In the UK
- All except far N and W of Scotland
Please note that the map is only intended as a guide. It shows general distribution rather than detailed, localised populations.
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