Coot
Coot showing off its huge scaly feet whilst preening. Here the fresh Spring daisies created a surrounding bokeh. Spring, UK.
More About the Coot
Coots are members of the rail family (Rallidae). In the UK this family also includes Moorhens, Water Rails, Corncrakes and Spotted Crakes. Most rails are very secretive and elusive and spend their time in dense vegetation such as reedbeds, communicating with one another via sharp calls, howvwer Coots are generally seen much more regularly foraging in the open. Both male and female coots are black with a white beak and crest and very distinctive scaly feet.
More information on Coots can be found on the RSPB website.