Common Moorhen
(Gallinula chloropus)
This is a sedentary species, rather common and easily seen on the lake, but also in small bodies of water, trenches, or millraces.
Description
They are all black, except for a think white stripe along the sides and a white undertail, which it holds high compared to its body. Wingspan: up to 55 cm. Length: 33 cm. Very important characteristics for distinguishing these birds from the similar coot are the front shield, red beak (with yellow tip), and tail held high. Their legs are very developed, with long toes that allow them to walk, supporting them without sinking on the leaves of water lilies and other aquatic plants.
Habitat
The environments preferred by the common moorhen include marshes, lakes, and river meanders with calm water. It also adapts to small ponds or trenches/millraces.
Observation in the Torbiera Reserve
Once very common in the Reserve, they are now difficult to see. However, the species is present and can be seen while it swims near the reeds, emitting its typical call. It is shier than the coot and rarely ventures out into open water. In winter, nonmigratory individuals are added to the many that are wintering, with the number of moorhens increasing during autumn and winter.
