Along many creeks flowing via native bushland reserves there are quite a few ponds or deeper swimming pools. Several water birds frequent the larger swimming pools in search of meals in addition to establishing a safe nesting environment in thicker vegetation around the shoreline.
One such fowl is the Pacific Black Duck (Anas superciliosa). Although it is found in suitable habitats throughout Australia, it's usually a wary bird when not accustomed to people.
It can be solitary, but also gathers in pairs and small groups. When breeding, mature ducks are principally seen in pairs as they dabble along the sides of water courses trying to find aquatic plants.
This common species is characterised by a particular blue invoice, black and white markings on its head, with its neck and physique being covered 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 prefer a hole in a tree for nesting which is just a brief distance above the ground in shut proximity to water.
These three species might lay up to 10 eggs each. The clutch leaves the nest very soon after birth. Hidden In The Hills: Ducks take significantly the duty of raising and protecting their household. The Australian Wood duck illustrated has a clutch of no much less than 13 chicks to look after.
When younger, the newborn ducklings are confined to the bottom, concealing themselves in long grass not far from the mother or father birds. They even have the flexibility to swim inside a couple of days of hatching.
See associated story: Hidden in the Hills: Kunzeas
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One such bird is the Pacific Black Duck (Anas superciliosa). Although it is present in appropriate habitats all through Australia, it is generally a wary bird when not accustomed to people.