Calling Coots
The Coots at Stover Country Park are busy. I can see their nest in the bushes, barely above the water level.
![Coot - The Hall of Einar - photograph (c) David Bailey (not the)](https://www.thehallofeinar.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Stover-The-Hall-of-Einar-1230-725x483.jpg)
They are consumed by defending their territory and building their nest. I know what’s coming. Last year I had great views of this Coot feeding its solitary chick:
This really is a Coot on a mission:
![Coot - The Hall of Einar - photograph (c) David Bailey (not the)](https://www.thehallofeinar.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Stover-The-Hall-of-Einar-1229-725x483.jpg)
I find their chicks very appealing. It’s tragic what an easy snack they prove to be:
This one has a lot to say:
![Coot - The Hall of Einar - photograph (c) David Bailey (not the)](https://www.thehallofeinar.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Stover-The-Hall-of-Einar-1249-725x483.jpg)
It’s over forty years since I first saw Coots and drew them in my 1970s teenage nature notebooks:
Their tongues are intriguing:
![Coot - The Hall of Einar - photograph (c) David Bailey (not the)](https://www.thehallofeinar.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Stover-The-Hall-of-Einar-1248.jpg)
So are their eyes:
While I’m pondering, it’s back again with more nesting material.
![Coot - The Hall of Einar - photograph (c) David Bailey (not the)](https://www.thehallofeinar.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Stover-The-Hall-of-Einar-1258-725x483.jpg)
They’re certainly hard working. Let’s hope it all pays off for them.