The "Ducks of Tasmania" booklet goes beyond simply identifying and appreciating these feathered friends. It delves into the crucial role ducks play in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
Posted
30 January 2024
TasPorts was delighted to support the Derwent Estuary Program at the launch of its 'Ducks of Tasmania' booklet at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Hobart.
The booklet, adorned with captivating illustrations by local artist Sam Lyne, highlights Tasmania's 11 native duck species. The goal is to educate the public about the diverse duck population in Tasmania, encompassing both native and feral species, while also promoting responsible behaviours towards our local waterfowl.
Collaborating with local councils, duck experts, and government agencies, the Derwent Estuary Program is actively addressing the challenges posed by large groups of introduced ducks.
The Chestnut Teal (Anas castanea) is easy to find in wetlands, beaches and lakes. While the iridescent green head is similar to some mallard breeds, they are tiny in comparison. They love nibbling on aquatic vegetation, insects and crustaceans. This little native beauty likes to chuckle, whistle and peep.
The Pink-eared Duck (Malachorhynchus membranaceus) can be very hard to find. Common on the mainland, the Pink-eared Duck is an occasional visitor to Tasmanian lakes and dams, with Goulds Lagoon and Queechy Lake being two of their favourite places. Another small duck, they have a cute pink spot behind their eyes, a gorgeous shovel bill, and striking Zebra-like stripes. The shovel bill is used to filter tiny organisms out of gulps of water for food. They love small aquatic invertebrates, plankton and plants.
The Derwent Estuary Program (DEP) was established in 1999 and has been nationally recognised for excellence in coordinating initiatives to reduce water pollution, conserve habitats and species, monitor river health and promote greater use and enjoyment of the foreshore.
The DEP is a regional partnership between local governments, the Tasmanian state government, commercial and industrial enterprises, scientists and the community to restore and promote our estuary. TasPorts is proud to be a long-term support of this important not-for-profit.
Find out more about the Ducks of Tasmania and the Derwent Estuary Program.