WHITE-EYE
Aythya australis
DESCRIPTION
White-eye (Aythya australis) is a medium-sized diving duck native to Australia and New Zealand. It is characterized by its distinctive white eye and a rounded body, with males typically displaying a darker plumage than females. These ducks are often found in freshwater wetlands, where they engage in foraging behavior, diving underwater to search for food.
FUN FACTS
- White-eye ducks are excellent divers, capable of staying underwater for up to 30 seconds while foraging for food
- They have a unique courtship display that involves elaborate swimming patterns and vocalizations to attract mates.| These ducks are known for their adaptability, often thriving in modified habitats such as rice fields and urban wetlands, showcasing their resilience in changing environments
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-15 years in the wild
Average Weight700-1,200 g
Average Length40-50 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social StructureThey are often found in pairs or small groups, especially during the breeding season.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring to early summer
- Habitat
- White-eyes inhabit freshwater wetlands, including lakes, ponds, and marshes. They prefer areas with abundant vegetation that provides cover and foraging opportunities.
- Biomes
- Wetlands, Freshwater
- Native Range
- The native range of White-eye includes Australia and New Zealand, where they are commonly found in suitable wetland habitats.
- Continent
- Australia, Oceania
- Countries
- Australia, New Zealand
- Diet
- White-eyes primarily feed on aquatic plants, seeds, and small invertebrates. They are known to dive for food, using their strong legs to propel themselves underwater.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- aquatic plants, seeds, small invertebrates
- Social Structure
- They are often found in pairs or small groups, especially during the breeding season.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 2-10
- Territorial
- 0
VU
700-1,200 g
Weight
40-50 cm
Length
- Coloration
- They have a dark brown body with a distinctive white eye and a lighter-colored head.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are generally darker than females, with more pronounced coloration.
- Lifespan
- 10-15 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 6-12 eggs
- Sexual Maturity
- 1 year
- Breeding Season
- Spring to early summer
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of White-eye is currently stable, with no significant declines reported.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 50,000-100,000
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat loss due to wetland drainage and pollution. Climate change also poses a risk to their wetland habitats.
- Predators
- Foxes, birds of prey, and large fish are known to prey on White-eye, particularly their eggs and young.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They rely on their ability to dive and hide among vegetation to evade predators.
- Compatible Animals
- Other waterfowl, such as ducks and geese
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon