There are three Australian white-eyed ducks on the little lake in Lake Gardens. They are feeding on bread and scraps thrown by walkers and passers by. They are in company with a group of black ducks. Are these ducks usually to be found around here?
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J. B., Lake Gardens.
White-eyed ducks (or hardheads) usually prefer large bodies of water, so their presence at Lake Gardens is rather surprising. They need a run-up to become airborne, unlike the black duck and grey teal, which can virtually jump straight up into the air. They are diving ducks, getting most of their food underwater. Males have white eyes and a bluish-tipped bill, and their plumage is a richer chocolate-brown than that of the duller females, which have dark eyes. Both are white under the tail.
- Questions and photos are welcome. Send to Roger Thomas at The Courier, PO Box 21, Ballarat, 3353, or email to rthomas@vic.australis.com.au
