Along many creeks flowing through native bushland reserves there are numerous ponds or deeper pools. Several water birds frequent the bigger pools looking for meals as well as establishing a secure nesting surroundings in thicker vegetation around the shoreline.
One such chook is the Pacific Black Duck (Anas superciliosa). Although it is present in appropriate habitats all through Australia, it's typically a cautious fowl when not accustomed to people.
It could 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 sides of water programs searching for aquatic plants.
This frequent species is characterised by a particular blue invoice, black and white markings on its head, with its neck and body being lined in dappled dark brown plumage.
Other ducks 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 brief distance above the ground in close proximity to water.
These three species might lay up to 10 eggs each. The clutch leaves the nest very quickly after birth. Hidden In The Hills: Ducks take seriously the accountability of elevating and protecting their family. The Australian Wood duck illustrated has a clutch of at least thirteen chicks to look after.
When young, the newborn ducklings are confined to the ground, concealing themselves in lengthy grass not far from the mother or father birds. They even have the power to swim within a few days of hatching.
See associated story: Hidden in the Hills: Kunzeas
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One such fowl is the Pacific Black Duck (Anas superciliosa). Although it is found in appropriate habitats throughout Australia, it is typically a cautious fowl when not accustomed to individuals.