On Saturday 16 February, there was an unusual looking duck at the Western
Treatment Farm on the southern pond nearest Beach Road. We saw it as soon
as we entered through the gate from Beach Road, first pond on the right. It
was standing preening at the edge of the pond next to a pair of Pacific
Black Duck and Chestnut Teal. It was larger than the PBD. In many respects
it resembled the Australian Shelduck with a chestnut breast, large white
patch on wing above green and chestnut patches, black-brown primaries and
tail. The bill was black and the legs grey. The head and neck though was
pale biscuit brown, with an off-white collar, and whitish around the face.
The bird preened continuously for several minutes before settling down for a
rest.
Could someone please help with identifying this bird?
Cheers
Gina Hopkins
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