|
On 22nd June while driving through the Mareeba
Wetland Reserve, Honary Chief Executive Tim Nevard approached a pair of large
Button-quail with three well developed young ahead in the middle of the track.
Tim was able to observe the birds at close range for a period of 2-3
minutes as they shepherded their offspring off the road.
In discussion with Lloyd Nielsen, the
most experienced observer of this rare species, he commented that he
felt that the B-B B-Q because of their rarity indeed may not be polyandrous like
other members of the genus.The observation adds much to support that theory. On
the rare occasions that they are encountered they are usually flushed up in
twos.
This sighting also coincides with the
right time of year to have young and at the moment we have the benefit of the
best Wet Season for three years.
Tim Nevard commented that the
illustration in the Helm Identification series 'Guide to Pheasants, Partridges
And Grouse, Including Button-quail, Sandgrouse and Allies of the World (Plate
69, page158) was much better than the general range of field
guides.
The sighting was shortly after midday and
the weather fine and sunny as is usual around Mareeba.
Del. Richards, Fine Feather Tours, Mossman,
N.Q.
| 