Peter Fullagar and I have been discussing
a water-‘weed’ on which a pair of swans at Tidbinbilla are feeding
their cygnets. This grows up to at least 60cms below the surface and is well-suited
to the swans’ feeding technique. When brought to the surface by the
adults it is attacked voraciously by the cygnets, sometimes being. first ‘washed’
by the adult, presumably to remove soil from the roots. Further comments
below. Can anyone help with ID of this particular plant – or on
whether it was artificially planted there?
Geoffrey
From: Peter Fullagar
[
Sent: Saturday, May 27, 2006 4:22
PM
To: Geoffrey
Dabb
Subject: Re: [canberrabirds]
Yes,I agree with your
observations, including your suggestion concerning the shoveler! I wonder if
anyone on the chatline could help with the weed ID?
Peter
On 5/27/06, Geoffrey Dabb <> wrote:
Peter - the weed had a long green grassy blade
and vine-like roots and stems. It was also quite deep – the
moorhens didn't seem able to reach it but enjoyed it when it was brought to the
surface.
I think I heard the shoveler call – it was only given
very intermittently, possibly by the 'odd man out' drake. Geoffrey
From: Peter Fullagar [
Sent: Saturday, May 27, 2006 2:19
PM
To: Geoffrey
Dabb
Subject: Re: [canberrabirds]
Geoff,
Any idea what the submerged weed was that they were feeding on? A male Shoveler
was calling well on the next pond up the series.He was sounding-off the day
before and again when I had another look after meeting up with you. The clubit call was particularly audible in
the still conditions - at least it would have been on the second day but for
the workmen! Not an easy one to get good recordings of I can tell you! Must try
for some if he is still performing next week and if the background intrusions
are absent.
Peter
--
Peter Fullagar
5 d'Arcy Place
Chifley
ACT 2606
Australia
