Gregarious, sometimes in very large flocks. Nomadic, across inland Australia. Prefers shallow lakes and swamps. Breeds opportunistically when floodwater begin to recede when aquatic invertebrates are most numerous. Filter feeder using specialized bill to feed on tiny aquatic organisms. Sometimes small groups swim in tight circle to concentrate prey by gyrating the water column.
The Australian Bird Guide, Peter Menkhorst et al
Classifications: | Bird, water and shoreline |
Family: | Anatidae (Ducks, Geese & Swans) |
Information sources: | Photo taken at Mackay by Marlis Schoeb |