Tweetsters,

I am posting this request on behalf of Charlotte Escott, treasurer of the
Washington Ornothological Society.

Charlotte has observed American Coots defending a nest (located on the side of
a road at the edge of water) from her, by lunging at her and "growling."
In the American Avocet she observed an adult bird defending a duckling and
possibly the nest of another bird.

Charlotte thinks both behaviors are worth writing articles about. She is
looking for references on this type of behavior in these species.

Can anyone supply information on where to start looking for references, or
perhaps suggest the name of a person or persons who specialize in the behavior
of these two species?

Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

Please send any mail either to me (Martin) at the address below or via
tweeters.

On behalf of Charlotte,
thank you

Martin Muller, Seattle
martinmuller at msn.com