User:Lparadis

American Coot or Mud Hen

I have spent time, over a year, watching the habits of mud hens in South Florida and found that these birds have a huge sense of family courtesy, especially with their eating habits. I noticed that adults and older siblings all participate in the feeding of a new batch of chicks. I would throw bread and before the adults or older siblings ate they carried the food to the chicks, beak delivering service. After a while, I discovered that not only did they cater to the youngest but also amongst themselves. A politeness and caring that I will never forget.