What is a "moorhen"?

A moorhen is a medium-sized waterbird found in wetland habitats around the world. It is characterized by its distinctive black plumage, red and yellow beak, and white undertail. With its long toes and lobed feet, the moorhen is well adapted for life in the water, enabling it to walk on floating vegetation. It is a proficient swimmer and diver, using its wings for propulsion underwater. An omnivorous feeder, the moorhen consumes a variety of aquatic plants, insects, small fish, and amphibians. When it comes to nesting, the moorhen builds a floating platform of vegetation near the water's edge. Its loud and raucous call can often be heard echoing across its wetland habitat, although the moorhen itself tends to be shy and elusive.