Hidden In The Hills: Ducks

Along many creeks flowing through local bushland reserves there are quite a few ponds or deeper pools.  Several water birds frequent the larger swimming pools looking for meals in addition to establishing a secure nesting environment in thicker vegetation across the shoreline.

One such bird is the Pacific Black Duck (Anas superciliosa).  Although it is found in appropriate habitats all through Australia, it is typically a wary chook when not accustomed to people.
It may be solitary, but also gathers in pairs and small teams.  When breeding, mature geese are largely seen in pairs as they dabble along the edges of water courses searching for aquatic plants.

This common species is characterised by a particular blue bill, black and white markings on its head, with its neck and physique being covered in dappled darkish brown plumage.


Other geese that frequent bushland waterways are the Australian Wood Duck (Chenonetta jubata) and the Australian Shellduck (Tadorna tadornoides).  All three mostly prefer a hole in a tree for nesting which is just a short distance above the bottom in close proximity to water.

These three species may lay up to 10 eggs every.  The clutch leaves the nest very quickly after delivery.   https://galstoncommunity.com.au/hidden-in-the-hills-pacific-black-duck/  and mom take seriously the responsibility of raising and protecting their household.  The Australian Wood duck illustrated has a clutch of no much less than thirteen chicks to take care of.

When young, the new child ducklings are confined to the bottom, concealing themselves in long grass not far from the parent birds.  They even have the flexibility to swim within a few days of hatching.

See associated story: Hidden within the Hills: Kunzeas

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One such bird is the Pacific Black Duck (Anas superciliosa).  Although it's present in suitable habitats all through Australia, it's generally a wary chook when not accustomed to folks.