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Australian Wood Duck (Chenonetta jubata)
Description:
A medium sized duck with a Goose-like shape and feeding habits. The underparts has mid-brown spots and the upper-parts are grey with black and white plumes. Males are distinguished by a rich brown head and a black 'mane' (giving rise to one of its other names, Maned Goose) and has pale flanks finely patterned with dark lines, appearing grey from a distance. Female heads are paler brown and have white stripes above and below the eye.
Habitat:
This species relies on tree-hollows for nesting. Pairs may be seen in early spring, vainly inspecting chimneys for possible nest-sites. At this time the pairs give a distinctive plaintive chattering call. It is very happy to graze, goose-like, on mown lawns and has become familiar in suburban parklands and even roadside verges.
Threats:
Collisions with vehicles while on the move between feeding, nesting and roosting places are common in suburban areas. The juvenile birds are often taken by foxes.
What can we do?:
Retain tree hollows wherever possible. Artificial nest-boxes may be used by this species. Use traffic-calming measures in areas where this species is breeding to avoid vehicle collisions with families travelling from nest-sites to water-bodies and grazing sites. Consider alternaitves to mown lawn on nature-strips and round-abouts near busy roads to avoid tempting ducks into dangerous situations. Encourage responsible pet ownership in areas near wetlands with cat restraint and inquisitive dogs being under control so that young ducks are not harassed. Fox and feral cat control are also valuable.
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