Moorhens will aggressively defend their nesting territory, although they are likely to come off worse against the slightly larger and more aggressive coot.
The Moorhen's distinctive white under-tail is used in alarm and as a warning
Warning signal
A fight
Fight or flight
Like its relative, the Coot, the Moorhen raises its wings like a tent to appear larger and intimidate its opponent.
The feet are the key to a successful fight.
A moorhen walks purposefully up to 2 yellow-bellied terrapins.
Unusually, the moorhen pecks at one of the terrapins - which withdraws to its shell.
A coot swims over and joins in the attack (while the other terrapin looks on).
Is it revenge or potential dinner?