Australian shelduck
Tadorna tadornoides
The Australian shelduck is seen around many of the Park’s wetlands during the wetter months.
These beautifully coloured birds are commonly spotted in pairs, with female shelducks easily distinguished from males by the presence of a conspicuous white ring around the eye and the base of the bill. Males are much louder than their mates too, vocalising to the females using loud honking sounds.
Adult shelducks are typically monogamous, with both the male and female participating in the rearing of their super fluffy young.
Horse Swamp is a favourite winter spot for the species, so be sure to look out for them on the Werrilyiup walk trail, but you can also often spot a pair wintering at the Village Lake.
FAUNA PROFILE
| Family | Anatidae |
| Scientific name | Tadorna tadornoides |
| Noongar name | |
| Common name | Australian shelduck |
| Conservation status | Least Concern |
| Habitat | wetlands |
| Park occurrence | seasonal visitors |
Above (L-R): a male shelduck leads his ducklings; the female shelduck has striking white facial markings; the male shelduck.