09
Aug
Whilst chicks of any kind are usually closely hidden from any would-be prey, I was lucky enough to watch as four Swamphen chicks stumbled out of the marshes where I was sitting at a local birding hotspot. They were nervous at first but quickly became comfortable with me as I am, of course, non-threatening and began to have an absolutely wonderful time.
Known as the Purple Swamphen, I can’t bring myself to call it that as it is so very clearly blue. (I’d be interested to hear what you think). With its red beak and bright blue breast it is a resplendent mix of colours, especially so in the sunshine.
Whilst they are also natural born egg stealers, their main diet consists of reeds and rushes, with the occasional frog, snail or duck, if they can catch them, thrown in. You can read more of Birdlife Australia’s Website.
Anyhow, back to the chicks. Awkward and playful, keeping a close eye on Mum and Dad, they swam and practised ducking underwater for food. Two of the chicks scurried closely alongside their parent, whilst the other two, a bit more adventurous, ventured out to sand mounds and swimming all on their own..
All Grown Up..
I recently returned to the spot where I cam across these chicks and found they had grown quite considerably.
Bicentennial Park, Homebush
Bicentennial Park with its magnificent wetlands, mangroves, and lakes makes it an ideal habitat for many birds, which is why it is a favourite to stop at when I’m out that way.
Waterview is a decent cafe which makes great eggs and coffee. I always think you should be fully fed and caffeinated before going out birding. It helps you to relax and gives you the energy needed for the hours you’ll spend watching and photographing.
That’s it from me. Happy birding. N x
