Common moorhen
The common moorhen (Gallinula chloropus), also called the waterhen, is commonly seen in lagoons flying at ground level, emitting a series of sounds to mark its territory.
Where to find them?
You can find the common moorhen in the marsh of Oceanogràfic.
General aspects
It is a dark coloured bird, practically its whole body being slate grey, with a darker head and neck, and some white feathers on the flanks and under the tail.
Its bill is red with a yellow mark at the tip. Both sexes also have a reddish facial shield. The lower extremities are a yellowish olive colour, with a red mark around the knees. The youngest specimens are brownish and do not have a facial shied.
Which region do they inhabit?
They live in humid regions almost all around the world. They feed on plants, as well as other aquatic invertebrates.
How do they reproduce?
During the month of April, the male and female build the nest, which is usually on the water’s edge or on the water between plants. They make it from grass and other aquatic plants. The nest has a basket shape with a roof. They lay 4 to 8 eggs, which are incubated by both sexes for around 3 weeks.
Did you know...?
They sometimes remain submerged next to stems of plants, with only their heads sticking out. They are very stealthy!