Australian Shelduck

Adult males have a dark green head with a white ring around the base of the bill, a chestnut breast, black and white shoulders, and grey vermiculated flanks. Females are similar but have a more prominent white eye-ring and white facial markings around the bill and eye. Juveniles are duller and browner with mottled underparts.

Chestnut breast band, grey flanks, dark green head (male) or white face markings (female), and large white wing patches visible in flight.

Length: 55–73 cm; Wingspan: 100–125 cm; Weight: 1.2–1.8 kg.

Loud, resonant honking calls, often given in flight. Females produce a distinctive, repeated deep barking or chattering call.

Herbivorous and omnivorous; feeds on grasses, seeds, aquatic plants, algae, and small aquatic invertebrates by grazing on land or dabbling in shallow water.

Found near large open bodies of fresh, brackish, or saline water, including lakes, swamps, estuaries, and flooded agricultural pastures.

Partial migrant or nomad; many birds undertake a large-scale moult migration to specific large lakes (like Lake George) in summer and autumn.

Nests in hollow trees, rabbit burrows, or dense vegetation, usually close to water. Clutch size is typically 10 to 14 creamy-white eggs. Both parents care for the ducklings.

Pacific Black Duck or other shelducks; distinguished by the Australian Shelduck's bold chestnut breast, grey flanks, and larger, goose-like posture.

Acts as a seed disperser and helps control aquatic invertebrates and vegetation in wetland ecosystems.

Least Concern, with a stable and widespread population.

Look for them in open wetlands, pastures, and lakes. They are often quite vocal and bold, making them relatively easy to spot and photograph during early morning or late afternoon.

Unlike many ducks, Australian Shelducks form long-term pair bonds that can last for multiple breeding seasons, and they are fiercely territorial during breeding.