Common moorehen calling, Jaipur

The common moorhen is also known as the waterhen and as the swamp chicken. The common moorhen lives around well-vegetated marshes, ponds, canals and other wetlands. It is likely the most common rail species, except for the Eurasian coot in some regions. This is a common breeding bird in marsh environments, well-vegetated lakes and even in city parks. The Common moorehen swims like a duck and walks atop floating vegetation like a rail with its long and slender toes. Populations in areas where the waters freeze, such as eastern Europe, will migrate to more temperate climes.

This species will consume a wide variety of vegetable material and small aquatic creatures. They forage beside or in the water, sometimes walking on lilypads or upending in the water to feed. They are often secretive, but can become tame in some areas. Despite loss of habitat in parts of its range, the common moorhen remains plentiful and widespread. It is classified as least concern by IUCN.