Calling Coots

The Coots at Stover Country Park are busy. I can see their nest in the bushes, barely above the water level.

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:

Tender moments

This really is a Coot on a mission:

I find their chicks very appealing. It’s tragic what an easy snack they prove to be:

And then there was one

This one has a lot to say:

It’s over forty years since I first saw Coots and drew them in my 1970s teenage nature notebooks:

Coots – forty years ago in my nature notebooks

Their tongues are intriguing:

So are their eyes:

Old red eyes is back

While I’m pondering, it’s back again with more nesting material.

They’re certainly hard working. Let’s hope it all pays off for them.