I LOVE coots! I love to watch them during mating/breeding season -- their territorial displays are exciting as they skitter across the top of the water after any intruder, and their care of offspring is heartening - both male and female take turns on the nest while the other goes out to collect food and carry it back to the nest. When I have offered food to a parent, it has taken it back to the nest rather than eat it.
Cj
