Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Walka Waterworks

Not a lot is known about Musk Duck's breeding habits. The breeding season varies with rainfall and waterlevels, but is typically between July and January, with the greatest number of clutches laid in September or October. The female chooses a secluded spot and builds a rough nest from trampled reeds, pulling more reeds over the nest to form a canopy. Clutch size is unknown but believed to be around 3 or 4 eggs. In most cases only one chick survives. They hatch already covered in dark brown down and are able to swim straight away, and dive within a few days.
This little guy was very cute. We didn't see him riding on his mum, but he followed her closely, diving at one point, and endearingly rising up to flap his tiny wings.

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