Frequently asked questions:
Why do they breed on plastic?
We don't know exactly that yet. Dutch biologist Auke-Florian Hiemstra is currently researching this phenomenon, which is very exciting! It could be that coots simply use plastic when they cannot find natural material. But maybe they also collect it for some reason, because it might offer advantages. For example, plastic is a strong material, but whether this outweighs the disadvantages is not yet clear. The study of plastic in coot nests, conducted by Naturalis, may give us more insight into this.
Onderzoek Naturalis
Is it okay to remove the nests after the breeding season?
When the young are big enough, birds leave their nests. Observe the nest from a distance to make sure it is no longer in use. For example, a sign that the nest is abandoned is when coots start defecating on the nest. As long as they are using it as a nest, they will keep it clean.
A “toilet” I can safely remove then, because they can defecate anywhere.
Onderzoek Auke-Florian Hiemstra
Is it Sad that the coot use garbage to build their nest?
No, it's not necessarily sad. Although we often think of plastic as trash, some waterfowl see it as a practical material for their nest. Current research by Dutch biologist Auke-Florian Hiemstra is currently investigating this phenomenon.
Onderzoek Auke-Florian Hiemstra
Should I throw all my trash in the canal now?
Definitely not! Although coots sometimes use plastic, it is actually dangerous to many other animals. Plastic can cause serious damage to nature and the environment. Together with the coot, we are cleaning up the current problem little by little through this project!
How do you recognize the coot?
The common coot can be recognized by its all-black plumage, a distinctive white bill and a white blaze on the forehead. They have red eyes and large, lobed legs that aid in swimming. Unlike ducks, which have flippers, coots have separate lobes on their toes. They make a scratching, shrill sound and are often seen in urban waters, where they aggressively defend their territory.
What does the coot get out of the collaboration?
The Coot gets:
- More nesting opportunities in the city - In urban areas, natural nesting sites are often scarce. The platforms provide additional nesting opportunities.
- Safer nesting site - The nesting platforms provide a stable and safe place to nest, protected from currents and disturbance.
- Healthier nest environment - Coots naturally build a new nest every year from soft plant material, which disintegrates and decays after the breeding season. Plastic waste in nests can cause them to be reused, leading to accumulation of waste and faeces. This creates breeding grounds for parasites and pathogens. The project prevents these problematic ‘parasitic hotspots’ by developing a circular system where nests containing waste material are disposed of after the breeding season.
- Less trash in the waters - This project ensures that we work with the coot to remove trash from inland waters, making a healthier habitat!
When can I (not) take the coot nests?
✅ Take:
When the coots no longer use the nest (usually after the breeding period, between October to January).
When eggs or young are no longer present.
If the nests consist mostly of garbage
❌ Do not take:
During the breeding season (usually from February to August), if there are eggs or young in the nest.
When the parent birds are still actively guarding or using the nest.
Why Ghent?
Ghent has many waterways with few nesting opportunities - The waterways Ghent provide an ideal habitat for coots, unfortunately nesting opportunities are lacking in certain parts of the city. This project aims to change that.
These are other factors why the locations Ghent favored:
Large population of coots - Due to the many bodies of water, there are many coots that benefit from additional nesting opportunities.
Waste issues - In a city like Ghent, a lot of litter ends up in the water, so coots often incorporate plastic into their nests.
Awareness and education - Ghent is a city with a strong focus on sustainability and ecology. This project can make people aware of litter in nature and the role of animals in a circular ecosystem.
Why was this specific design chosen?
The design has been carefully considered from both a practical and communicative perspective.
- From a practical standpoint, the platforms are designed to be sturdy and durable. Their construction takes stability and accessibility into account, ensuring that the birds can use them effectively.
Prior research played a key role in shaping the design. This included discussions with local residents who built DIY nesting platforms and an online literature review on the natural nesting preferences of coots. However, some uncertainties remain, which is why seven prototypes were deliberately launched, each with a different shape. This allows for testing and evaluation of various designs.
- From a communicative perspective, the design serves an important role in engaging the public. The platforms are created as visually striking elements within the urban landscape, making them not only functional but also conversation starters. By incorporating recognizable and sometimes playful forms—such as a platform shaped like a garbage truck—the project highlights the collaboration between humans and birds in a way that is both accessible and thought-provoking. This approach helps raise awareness about the role of coots in urban waste collection and invites people to rethink their relationship with urban ecology.
Are the platforms weatherproof?
Yes, the platforms have been carefully crafted and finished with a high-quality layer of marine varnish. This ensures they should withstand various weather conditions for several years. However, over time, maintenance or minor repairs may be necessary, depending on exposure to the elements and usage by the coots.
How many nesting platforms are currently in the water?
Currently there are 7 prototypes in the water, each in a different shape to test and evaluate different designs.
Is this a finalized project yet?
No, this project is still in the testing phase. I still have several ideas for optimizing the platforms and want to try them out in various locations. Further research also needs to be done on the preferences of the coot, as this could have a major impact on the success of the project.