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African Finfoot
The African Finfoot (Podica senegalensis) is a species of aquatic bird found in the rivers and lakes of western, central, and southern Africa. It has a range of habitats where rivers, streams and lakes have good cover along the banks. This range includes forest, wooded savannah, flooded forest, and even mangrove swamps.
This bird is an underwater specialist. It has bright red lobed feet, a long neck and sharp beak. Its plumage varies by race, but is generally pale underneath and darker on top. The male is darker than the female.
The diet of the African Finfoot consists of invertebrates, including mayflies, dragonflies, crustaceans, and on snails, fish and amphibians. They are considered to be highly opportunistic feeders and will take food directly off the water's surface. They are also adept out of water and often feed along the water's edge.
These birds are seen singly or in pairs and are very secretive. Because of their elusive behavior it is unknown whether they spend most of their time in water or on land. Breeding times vary by area, but usually coincide with the rainy season. The nest is a mess of twigs and reeds built on a fallen tree above water. The female lays two eggs and incubates them solely. The chicks leave the nest soon after hatching.
The African Finfoot is not considered a threatened species, but because of its elusive nature, it is hard to determine its status. Though possibly scarce, it is a very widespread species. There is concern that it may become threatened, as wetland habitat is cleared, altered and polluted. It is believed that this species can only tolerate minimal disturbance and should be monitored to safeguard the populations. There are currently no African Finfoots in captivity.
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