FLORIDA GALLINULE
219. Gallinula galeata. 13 in.
Bill and crown plate, red, tipped with yellow; legs greenish with a red ring around the top; plumage gray changing to blackish on the head and neck. Florida Gallinules are very noisy, especially during the mating and breeding season, and marshes in the south, where they breed by hundreds, fairly ring with their cries chuckles and squawks. They have an almost endless variety of notes but all of them are harsh and explosive. At times they appear to be stupid, and allow anyone to approach in a boat, near enough to touch them with an oar. When frightened, and with no protecting rushes to conceal them, they will rush off over the grass and water, with much spattering and squawking.
Nest.—Usually fastened in the marsh grass or flags above water; made of rushes and grass; the eggs are similar to those of the [Purple Gallinule] but are duller.
Range.—Breeds north to southern New England, Ontario, Minnesota and Oregon; winters in southern U. S.
