Feeding the birds at the pond on a cold winter’s day, a sudden eruption of violence nearby drew my attention. I looked to my left and saw to coots fighting viciously. At first there were two spectators, but one of them quickly flew the scene. It wasn’t long before the other one, the one who had stayed and watch, joined in. I wasn’t sure what the fight was about or who the victim was. I doubted whether intervening would do any good. But I couldn’t just do nothing. I ran over to the three of them and jumped in between them. They flew off and dove into the water. All was quiet, if only for a moment…