Birds of the Alameda Shoreline

This guide includes over 50 bird species found along the beaches of Alameda. Look through the guide to see multiple photos of each species as well as range maps and information about habitats and feeding habits.

American Coot

The American Coot (Fulica americana) (a.k.a. mud hen) is a bird of the family Rallidae. Though commonly mistaken to be ducks, American Coots belong to a distinct order. Unlike the webbed feet of ducks, coots have broad, lobed scales on their lower legs and toes that fold back with each step in order to facilitate walking on dry land. Coots live near water, typically inhabiting ...more ↓

Edited by Marisa Rafter, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA)