Calls. Although none of the vocalizations of American Coot can properly be considered a “song,” this is a highly vocal species that calls with a variety of grunting, croaking, and squawking noises. The most common call is a short single-noted krrp or prik.

Why do coots make noise?

Thankfully, they have a natural cork-like buoyancy and soon bob back to the surface to consume their catch. At feeding times you may hear the coots emit some explosive 'pitts' noises. A sound rather like a hammer striking an anvil. This is due to the coots' quarrelsome habit of stealing food from one another.

How do you know if you are a coot?

Coots are dark-gray to black birds with a bright-white bill and forehead. The legs are yellow-green. At close range you may see a small patch of red on the forehead. You'll find coots eating aquatic plants on almost any body of water.