Wednesday 18 December 2019

Wild Bird Wednesday 387 - Radjah Shellduck

The Radjah Shellduck (Tadorna radjah) is a common resident of the top end of Australia.  One of its characteristic features is the pale colour of its beak and legs.

The name of the this duck does not seem to have any real meaning! It was first named in 1839, where it was proclaimed to be a 'pretty' species (which is true!) and was given the name 'rajdah' as part of its formal name.  It seems the common name comes from that choice.  It has an alternative common name - The Burdekin Duck - which refers to an area of country where they can gather in large numbers.

These birds were seen at Bitter Springs and the Mamukala Wetlands.  Juvenile birds show a 'dirty head and neck' - but I think the bird with brown on it is just in need of a wash.  And if you look at where it is standing, this is no surprise.








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16 comments:

  1. Dirty bird!! LOL..The black band looks like it is holding it's wings on to it's body..Super pictures as always..

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  2. Fabulous duck ! There are so many birds I haven't seen in Australia !

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  3. Striking plumage! I guess they are classified somewhere between ducks and geese, as are Muscovy Ducks and Egyptian Geese.

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  4. Interesting duck. Thank you for sharing.

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  5. I've definitely never seen this one. Beautiful, indeed! Love the eyes!

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  6. They are very pretty and unusual markings. Thanks for sharing, a totally new one to me.
    Cheers Diane

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  7. Very unusual looking duck! Very pretty...

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  8. It is a fabulous bird, Stewart. As Nathalie says above, there are a whole lot of Australian birds still to be seen in many different regions of the country.

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  9. Another newbie for me. Very dapper looking duck.

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  10. An attractive looking duck Stewart. thanks for hosting.

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  11. Pretty duck! Beautifully captured as always.

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  12. Hari OM
    What a handsome birdie... YAM xx

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  13. Cool new 🦆 to me thanks friend, Happy holidays

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  14. Interesting. It looks like it is wearing a black cloak.

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  15. Hi Stewart, what a beautiful photos of this beautiful duck. I wish you a merry christmas and a happy new year. Greetings Caroline

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