Breeding resident and winter visitor.

Coots were first recorded from Fairlands Valley Lakes in 1973 when up to three were seen between 4 and 31 December. Since 1993 they have successfully bred there, prior to which they were mainly winter visitors. Until 1998, when they remained all summer, brooding young into August, they gradually disperse following breeding during July and August, and increased in numbers again during the winter.  

The largest number recorded at Fairlands Valley Lakes is 52 during the WeBS Count for September 2016.

Away from Fairlands Valley Lakes, two were found on some flood water near Box Wood on 15 January 1977 and one was at the Town Centre Gardens on 23 and 24 December 1981.