This was a first for me . . . witnessing a down and dirty fight between American Coots intent on keeping each other off coveted turf. Neither bird was hurt. Well, maybe emotionally. The loser scrambled across the water to escape the victor.

American Coots can drown in territorial battles, although it’s not common. They pound each other with their huge, feet (and those lobed toes) and sometimes one coot is held under water in the process.

American Coot Territorial Fight

American Coots in Territorial Fight - ©ingridtaylar