Philip has described the usually sleepy scene at this particular spot. Why the defender of the coveted projection is often a bit on edge is that he
is currently flightless, having moulted all main flight feathers. Instead of feathers he has rows of tubular sheaths. The visual effect, when occasionally and briefly seen, is quite unexpected. Probably not for ducks, though. So we will see this chap around
for a bit longer.
From: Canberrabirds <>
On Behalf Of Philip Veerman via Canberrabirds
Sent: Friday, 7 March 2025 12:25 PM
To: 'CanberraBirds email list' <>
Subject: [Canberrabirds] Freckled Ducks at JW
Yesterday I went to Kellys swamp and was sitting in Bittern hide at 3:30 pm. Whilst I was there, a pair of Freckled Ducks were resting under the willow straight in front of the hide (as in only a few metres away). One on a stick out of
the water and one on the island, about a metre apart. Resting, as in they barely moved for the whole time. Mostly sleeping, with some interruptions for preening and sometimes making what are probably aggressive moves (head down & beak open) towards Black Ducks
when the Black Ducks got close. Both Freckled Ducks had some red on the base of the beak, though not conspicuous. I walked away for about 20 minutes and then came back and they still had not moved.
Philip
