A single Pink-eared Duck at Balyang Sanctuary, Barwon River, Geelong.
It was there yesterday and today. There are very few records of Pink-ears
around this part of the Barwon, and it's not usual to see a lone bird (I
don't think I've ever seen one by itself before). It was with Grey Teal
yesterday, but feeding by itself today. Pink-ears often feed in pairs,
head-to-tail. Perhaps this bird is injured - but it didn't show any sign of
injury or distress. The other explanation could be that its mate has been
shot - Pink-eared Duck is still on the list of species that can be hunted,
despite the fact that its numbers plunge more than most duck species in
times of drought, and it delays breeding when conditions improve.
Balyang is a rather degraded series of ponds with some reed beds, all
sitting in a busy public park beside the river. There are usually large
numbers of feral geese and ducks, often with plenty of people feeding food
scraps and bread. I was surprised at the diversity there yesterday and
today - 40 species in all, including a couple of Buff-banded Rail.
Russell Woodford
Geelong
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