Rails, Gallinules & Coots (Rallidae)
Species
Members of this family are small to medium-sized aquatic birds, with short, often cocked tails, broad, rounded wings, and long legs. Among coots, the toes are particularly long, and are lobed to spread the bird's weight over floating vegetation. Rails and crakes are usually brown and cream, and blend in with their background. In contrast, gallinules and coots are boldly coloured.
 
There are 130 species worldwide, of which nine breed in Europe.
 
Species seen but not photographed:
  • Western Swamp-hen : Spain (November 2018)