The Eurasian Coot (locally known as मरुल) is one of the most familiar waterbirds found in Nepal's wetlands, lakes, and marshy areas. It is often seen gliding across calm water surfaces, diving for food, or swimming in small groups in places like Nagdaha, Beeshazari Tal, Koshi Tappu, Barhaiya Lake, and other wetland ecosystems.

Eurasian Coot swimming in a peaceful wetland in Nepal with a black body and distinctive white bill
Eurasian Coot gliding across a calm Lake, its striking white bill and frontal shield contrasting with its dark body.

A Semi-Migratory Waterbird in Nepal

The Eurasian Coot is considered a partially migratory (semi-migratory) bird in Nepal. This means:

  • Some populations move to lower altitudes or warmer regions in winter
  • Others remain in suitable wetlands year-round
  • Movement depends on food availability and the freezing of water bodies in higher regions

In Nepal, they are especially noticeable during the winter season when migratory populations arrive in larger numbers.

Habitat and Distribution

In Nepal, the Eurasian Coot prefers:

  • Freshwater lakes
  • Marshes and slow-moving rivers
  • Artificial ponds and reservoirs

They are commonly observed in both lowland Terai wetlands and mid-hill lakes, making them a widespread waterbird across the country.

Behavior and Feeding

The Eurasian Coot is highly adapted to aquatic life:

  • It feeds mainly on aquatic plants, algae, seeds, and small invertebrates
  • It can dive underwater to search for food
  • It is often seen “dabbling” or grazing on floating vegetation

One of its most interesting behaviors is its territorial nature, especially during breeding season, where it can become quite aggressive toward intruders.

Can the Eurasian Coot Fly?

There is a common misconception that the Eurasian Coot cannot fly or depends only on water for movement. In reality:

  • ✔ It is a strong flyer, capable of long-distance migration
  • ✔ It takes off by running on water while flapping its wings
  • ✔ It prefers water for landing and takeoff because it is safer and easier
  • ✔ Its flight may look heavy, but it is fully functional

So, while it spends most of its time on water and appears clumsy on land, it is definitely not flightless.

Adaptation to Water Life

The Eurasian Coot has several special adaptations:

  • Lobed toes instead of fully webbed feet, helping in swimming
  • Dense body structure for buoyancy
  • Strong legs for diving and pushing through water plants

These features make it one of the most efficient water-dwelling birds in Nepal’s wetlands.

Importance in Nepal’s Ecosystem

The presence of Eurasian Coots indicates:

  • Healthy wetland ecosystems
  • Balanced aquatic vegetation
  • Suitable habitat for other migratory waterbirds

They also play a role in controlling aquatic plant growth and maintaining ecological balance.

🪺 Nesting

  • Builds floating nests attached to reeds or aquatic plants
  • Uses grasses, reeds, and plant material
  • Chooses shallow, vegetated wetlands like ponds, lakes, and marshes
Typically, spring to early summer. In Nepal: around March–August, depending on location

🥚 Eggs & Incubation

  • Lays 6–10 eggs (can be more in good conditions)
  • Eggs are light-colored with dark speckles
  • Both parents incubate the eggs
  • Incubation lasts about 21–24 days

Conclusion

The Eurasian Coot (मरुल) is an important and fascinating waterbird of Nepal’s wetlands. Though it spends most of its life on water and appears less graceful on land, it is actually a capable migratory species with strong flying ability. Its presence adds life, movement, and ecological value to Nepal’s lakes and marshes, especially during the winter season.

If you observe closely in places like Nagdaha or Barahaiya lake, you may see these birds diving, feeding, and gliding gracefully—true symbols of Nepal’s wetland biodiversity.

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