Hidden In The Hills: Ducks

Along many creeks flowing via native bushland reserves there are numerous ponds or deeper pools.  Several water birds frequent the larger pools seeking meals as nicely as establishing a safe nesting environment in thicker vegetation around the shoreline.

One such bird is the Pacific Black Duck (Anas superciliosa).  Although it is found in suitable habitats all through Australia, it is usually a wary bird when not accustomed to individuals.

It may be solitary, but in addition gathers in pairs and small teams.  When breeding, mature ducks are largely seen in pairs as they dabble alongside the edges of water courses looking for aquatic crops.

This frequent species is characterised by a distinctive blue bill, black and white markings on its head, with its neck and body being lined in dappled darkish brown plumage.


Other ducks that frequent bushland waterways are the Australian Wood Duck (Chenonetta jubata) and the Australian Shellduck (Tadorna tadornoides).  All three largely favor a hollow in a tree for nesting which is just a brief distance above the ground in shut proximity to water.

These three species may lay as a lot as 10 eggs every.  The clutch leaves the nest very quickly after start.  Both dad and mom take critically the responsibility of raising and defending their household.  The Australian Wood duck illustrated has a clutch of at least 13 chicks to take care of.

When younger, the new child ducklings are confined to the bottom, concealing themselves in lengthy grass not far from the mother or father birds.  They even have the power to swim within a couple of days of hatching.

See related story: Hidden in the Hills: Kunzeas

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One such bird is the Pacific Black Duck (Anas superciliosa).  Although  Hidden In The Hills: Ducks  is present in suitable habitats throughout Australia, it's usually a cautious chook when not accustomed to people.