An afternoon at the swamp - (with Pink-eared Ducks)

What a thrill to see all your photos Margaret! They're all just beautiful.

Yah, I missed this thread and I even knew it was here! LOL.

Wonderful trip to the swamp! When will we see baby pink eared ducks?? They're so FLUFFY!!!! ha.

LOVE narcissus.

Thanks, folks. Mrs Ed, I'm not sure how long the Pink-eared Ducks sit on eggs and I also unsure if the eggs have been laid yet. I'll have to go down on a regular basis to see what's happening.

These shots are from several days ago. I've been ridiculously busy and haven't had a chance to sort them before now.

First, a pair of Australasian Shovelers

The male on his own.

Black Swan.

Eurasian Coot on its nest.

and being brought nesting material by its mate

Another Stilt

L-R Pacific Black Duck, Pink-eared Duck, Black Swan

A series of shots of the Pink-eared Ducks that appear to have regained control of their dead nesting tree from the Corellas. First, it flies up to the hollow.

It's mate is already there and it's a bit crowded.

I'm not sure if the bird that just landed displaced the other, or whether it wasn't able to successfully land. Either way, one of them ends up on its way to the water.

There a a few more shots, but they won't post. I'll try again later.

....

.....

Nearly there

Splash down.

Last one. The sounds they make are as unique as their appearance.

Super shots, Margaret. Those nesting ducks are fascinating.

Thanks, GP. They're funny little things, aren't they?

Look at those beauties! I wonder if the pinks would like to come to the US? lol Great pix and nicely presented, Mags!

Thanks, Kim. I thought you'd like them. They're being really quite elusive this year. Last year was the best I'd ever seen.

Hmmmm....maybe they are on their way to America ;o))

I am sending you an email from Geoff. He so enjoys your plane pix and videos, so is sending you one!

Very nice shots Margaret! Reminds me of Pipe Creek but a whole different cast of characters from the other side of the world. lol Great job holding focus on the P-e Ducks at their nest sight.

Nice shots!! Those Silts sure are a pretty bird.

Can't wait to see those baby pink ears!

I'm always at aww struck, at your beautiful photos. Nice place for birding.

Great shots margaret. A spectacular range of birds to look at. Loved it!

Thank Geoff for the video, Kim. His piloting skills have really come along nicely.

Burd, I've had the same thought when I look at the photos you post on the Pipe Creek area. Different birds, but similar territory.

Nanny, they are beautiful, with their lo-o-o-o-ng legs. The super models of the bird world.

Burn, that is such a nice thing to say. Thank you.

Mrs Ed, the ducklings are the most adorable little things you'd ever see. Unfortunately, the rate of survival for any ducklings at the swamp is quite low as they are easy prey to the Long-necked turtles.

Thanks, Rian. What's happening in your neck of the woods?

I have not been able to do much birding....DW is in Cambodia & Nepal, I stripped a bedroom down to the floor concrete and I am now building it up again, new storage, carpets, lights, paint, etc...

As the winter is over, I am starting to see and hear new birds and the swallows are also back..so I am itching.

Rian, I think I can speak for everyone when I say how fascinating your wonderful bird life is and that we'd love to see any amount of it you have on offer. Happy renovating, just now.

Remember Narcissus? Well, here he is taking the admiration of his reflection to a whole new level.

Ha ha!!

Ooops! must have tried to kiss himself. lol

Just a little peck.

;o))

Funny, :0)

I think I dated a guy like that once......LOL!

Rofl, nanny!