Coot (Common/Eurasian)

Fulica atra

Coots have a white forehead shield . . .

. . . and amazing feet

Also called Common or Eurasian Coot to distinguish from other global (especially American) species. They are related to Moorhens and Water Rails.

They are argumentative birds in the breeding season and will raise their wings like a tent to appear bigger to bluff opponents

Males will even chase large fish away from their nesting territory

Big Ben Coot

Males will also fight other coots (and moorhens) and can inflict serious injury with their large clawed feet or their beaks