Chenonetta jubata
The Maned Duck, *Chenonetta jubata*, is a distinctive Australian waterfowl, often referred to as the "Wood Duck" due to its preference for tree hollows for nesting. Averaging 45-51 cm (18-20 in) in length with a wingspan of 70-85 cm (28-33 in) and weighing around 700-1000g (1.5-2.2 lbs), this elegant bird displays a unique blend of duck and goose-like characteristics. Key identification marks include its small, rounded head, a dark brown, erect "mane" on the nape (more pronounced in males), a...
This adaptable duck primarily inhabits open woodlands, grasslands, and agricultural areas near freshwater, including rivers, dams, ponds, and floodplains. They are often found in both natural and artificial wetlands from sea level up to moderate elevations in hilly country.
The diet of the Maned Duck consists predominantly of grasses, sedges, herbs, clover, and other ground vegetation, grazed from pastures and lawns. They supplement this with aquatic plants and occasional insects found by dabbling in shallow water.
Maned Ducks are largely diurnal, spending much of the day grazing on land or loafing by water, often roosting in trees or on logs, and occasionally even on power lines. Their primary foraging strategy involves terrestrial grazing on short grasses and clover, much like a goose, though they will al...
The Maned Duck is widely distributed across mainland Australia and Tasmania, being a resident species throughout much of its range. Its primary breeding and year-round distribution encompasses eastern, southern, and central Australia, extending from Queensland through New South Wales, Victoria, S...
Least Concern
- Maned Ducks are often called "Wood Ducks" in Australia, despite being unrelated to the North American Wood Duck (*Aix sponsa*). - They are one of the most terrestrial of Australian waterfowl, frequently grazing on land far from water sources, much like geese. - Uniquely among Australian ducks, ...