What does the Purple Swamphen eat?

The Purple Swamphen's diet shapes where and when you'll find it. Understanding what it eats helps you predict where to look.

Diet overview

Omnivore

How it forages

Omnivorous. Primarily feeds on the soft shoots, stems, and seeds of aquatic plants, often holding food with one foot. Also consumes insects, mollusks, small fish, eggs, and nestlings of other birds. They are known to strip reeds to get to the tender inner parts.

When it feeds

Diurnal, most active during early morning and late afternoon.

Explore the Purple Swamphen