Range:

Northern Australia and New Guinea

Habitat:

Sandy and muddy coasts, occasionally inland

Characteristics:

Flight is goose-like, slower wing beats than most ducks. White headed with nearly white eyes and a blackish breastband that interrupts its otherwise white under parts. Like other shelducks, it has iridescent green speculums, but in this species they are bordered with a black bar in front and a white bar behind. The back is black, and the sexes are essentially identical in appearance.

 

Behavior:

These birds are strongly monogamous and breed for life. The pair defend a territory that includes a nest site, a foraging area, and a brood rearing area. This territory may include as much as 2 miles of river frontage.

Reproduction:

Usually nest in hollow trees. Clutch size averages less than ten eggs. Incubation is about 30 days with young being cared for by both parents.

Interesting Facts:

Also known at the Burdekin Duck