Habitat:
Wetlands, rivers, lakes, grasslands

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Australian Wood Duck, Chenonetta jubata, is a waterfowl native to Australia, known for its distinctive plumage and crest of feathers on its head. Males have a dark brown head and grey body, while females display a more subdued plumage with speckled patterns. These ducks prefer wetlands, rivers, and lakes but can also be found in grasslands and urban parks. They primarily feed on aquatic plants, seeds, and insects. Their social behavior is interesting, as they often form family groups. Although generally tolerant of humans, they can become wary if disturbed.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Australian Wood Duck, focus on wetlands early in the morning or late afternoon to take advantage of soft light. Use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture details without disturbing them. Be patient and observe their behavior to anticipate their movements. A tripod can be helpful to stabilize your camera. Avoid sudden movements and keep a distance of at least 10 m to avoid scaring them.