Distinctive huge coot of lakes and bogs in high Andes. Often seen standing along shorelines or on big weed-matted nest mounds. Note the colorful bill, long red legs, and huge feet. Prolonged nesting season means that all stages of nesting and young can be seen together, from small fuzzy black chicks to full-sized juveniles, which are pale grayish with a frosty whitish head and neck. Often rather aggressive. Loud clucking and purring songs carry well and are given frequently.