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Some time ago, there were a few postings on Birding-aus regarding the
disappearance of Jacanas. At that time, Jacanas had mostly disappeared
from many wetalnds in N. Qld. The wet seasons of 2002 and 2003 failed
and the large Lake Mitchell (between Mareeba and Mt Molloy) was a good
example, having dried right back. The waterlily fringed perimeter of the
lake disappeared and so did the Jacanas. Much of tropical Australia
including all of Cape York Peninsula missed the wet over that time and many
wetlands would have been either very low or dry. The huge Tinaroo Dam near
Atherton fell to its lowest level (about 24% of capacity) in the 50 odd years
since it was built.
Earlier this year the wet season arrived and gave us one of the best on
record (but not the heaviest). All wetlands were replenished and vegetation
started to grow back. At the moment waterlilies are getting back to their
former glory. A few months ago, with the growth of the lilies and
aquatic vegetation, Jacanas started arriving. At present numbers are high -
there are many hundreds on Lake Mitchell and breeding is taking place
with a couple of clutches of young. already appearing
Where did they go through those dry years? It seems as
though Jacanas are able to move very long distances quickly -
which belies their appearance on the water where they seem to be a pretty
average flier. It would be interesting to know how extensive the movement is -
it would probably be surprising.
Lloyd Nielsen
Mt Molloy Nth Qld
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