The common moorhen (Gallinula chloropus) is a medium-sized, charcoal-colored waterbird widely distributed across the wetlands of the Indian Subcontinent. It is easily identified by its distinctive red frontal shield and bill, which ends in a bright yellow tip. While its body appears black from a distance, it features a prominent white line along its flanks and white undertail coverts, which it flicks frequently to communicate or signal alarm. The moorhen has large, greenish-yellow legs with long, unwebbed toes that allow it to walk easily over floating vegetation. They are omnivorous, foraging for aquatic plants, insects, and small snails.