A large group of American coots slowly swim across the water. Their white frontal shields are easily seen in the late afternoon sun. Suddenly, another bird is spotted. It looks very similar to a coot, yet it has a red frontal shield. Like the coots, it is swimming around in the water. What is it? It’s a gallinule, specifically the Common gallinule (Gallinula galeata).

The common gallinule, as it’s name suggests, is one of the most common gruiform birds in North America. In fact, it is the most widespread Rallidae bird in the world, far outnumbering the coots, its close relatives. There are two species of gallinules in North America, the Common and the American purple. The latter is a brightly colored wading bird that inhabits the swamps and water-logged forests of the Southeast.

In terms of size, Common gallinules are roughly chicken-sized. In fact, they resemble gamebirds more than the secretive and water-loving rails. However, no North American gallinaceous birds have bright red beaks with yellow tips. Also, it is very rare to find a Common gallinule far from water, while many species of gamebirds in North America live in prairies and forests, sometimes far from water.

The common gallinule and the American coot look very similar, and are closely related. However, there are some notable differences. Below is a chart of each bird’s identification, so that they can be distinguished.

American coot:

• Is mostly black in color
• Can also vary to dark-grey for body plumage
• Has only a small patch of red near frontal shield (can only be seen from close range)
• Has a largely white frontal shield and beak

Common gallinule

• A small patch of yellow on the beak
• A completely red frontal shield which extends from the beak to the forehead
• Not all of the body is black, although most of it is
• Some whitish stripes near its wing
• Wing is mostly brown in color