Gallinula chloropus

Moorhen - The Moorhens call can be heard all over our lakes and ponds. Sounds like it's trying to clear it's throat! A lovely colourful red and yellow beak easily identifies this bird. Out of water it looks like it's feet are too big for its body. Found on virtually any kind of freshwater, marshlands, swamps, lakeshores and riverbanks, often in urban parks and sewage ponds. Frequently feeds on grass adjacent to water. Taken in Derby, Nottingham and Co. Sligo and Leitrim. Also in Portugal.

▼ Video Clips

▼ Moorhen foraging in the mud at Allestree Lake Derby

▼ Moorhen chick at Vilamoura reedbeds in Portugal