Moorhen
Gallinula chloropus
The Moorhen is a medium-sized waterbird commonly seen in Britain's wetlands, including marshes, ponds, and canals, throughout the year, with peak sightings during the breeding season from March to July. It is a widespread species in Britain, found in a variety of freshwater habitats, including urban and rural areas.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Moorhen in the field.
The Moorhen can be identified by its distinctive red and yellow bill, black head with a white stripe on the forehead, and greyish-brown back and wings, with a white underside and long, greenish-yellow legs. Its overall shape, with a compact body and long legs, is also distinctive.
The Moorhen is slightly smaller than a Crow, but larger than a Blackbird, making it a medium-sized bird that is easily recognizable in its habitat.
The male Moorhen has a glossy black head, neck, and breast, with a white stripe on the forehead, and greyish-brown back and wings, while the belly and undertail coverts are white, with a reddish-brown patch on the underside of the tail.
The female Moorhen is similar to the male, with the same overall plumage pattern, although she may be slightly duller in colour, particularly on the head and neck.
The Moorhen's call is a loud, sharp "krek" or "kuk", often repeated, and can be heard throughout the day, particularly during the breeding season.
Moorhens are omnivorous birds that feed on a variety of plants and animals, including aquatic vegetation, insects, and small invertebrates, often foraging in shallow water or on land, and are known for their distinctive, jerky gait when walking.
The Moorhen can be confused with the Coot, but can be distinguished by its red and yellow bill, lack of a white patch on the forehead, and longer, more slender legs, as well as its more compact body shape and different call.
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