The idea that a cygnet could be mistaken for an ugly duckling entertained Hans Christian Anderson. In a similar vein I remember being fascinated to discover that those funny-looking little ducklings that never grew bigger were actually things called grebes!
Whatever can be said about island developers they have certainly been successful in creating what is currently a bird-attracting wetland at Shearwater Estate.
Many other species also frequent the wetland (Ereamea list - 59 species) ..... including actual ducks!
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| Hoary-headed grebe (Poliocephalus poliocephalus) Immature bird (similar to non-breeding winter adult plumage) |
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| I think we are seeing here the grebe's nictitating membrane which is said to serve as a contact lens when diving. |
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| Like water off a grebe's back! |
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| By way of comparison - adult breeding plumage Fishers Wetland, Phillip Island, 5/1/2009 (all other photos Shearwater estate) |
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| Black swan (Cygnus atratus) |
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| Can reach to scratch anywhere on it's back and see the spot as well! |
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| Hardhead or White-eyed duck (Aythya australis) |
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| Little pied cormorant (Microcarbo melanoleucos) |
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| Welcome swallows (Hirundo neoxena) & Fairy martins (Petrochelidon ariel) |
Nice photos and such a variety!
ReplyDeleteI was wondering about the Grebe's nictitating membrane...
Would it be transparent in waterfowl?
From what I have observed in birds of preys, this membrane is thick and whitish,
one wouldn't see the eye through.
I am interested in your comment about this!
Cheers Pate & happy birding!