Australian Wood Ducks

Description:

The Australian Wood Duck is a dabbling duck found throughout much of Australia. It is the only living species in the genus Chenonetta, and is a member of the family Anatidae. This 45–51 cm duck looks like a small goose, and feeds mostly by grazing in flocks. Sexes are easy to tell apart - the male is grey with a dark brown head and mottled breast, and the female has white stripes above and below the eye and mottled underparts. They are beautiful birds!

Habitat:

Found in grasslands, open woodlands, wetlands, flooded pastures and along the coast in inlets and bays. It is also common on farmland with dams, as well as around rice fields, sewage ponds and in urban parks.

Notes:

These ducks were spotted at the lake on the University of Queensland Campus, Brisbane. It's a fantastic spot for waterbirds of all varieties, and is just across the river from my home. This little group comprised of 2 males and 2 females... and a Little Egret in the background. It was so very serene as we all sat quietly soaking up the suns rays on a cool winters day.