Aspects of the Breeding Biology of the Australasian Grebe (Tachybaptus novaehollandiae) in Urban Wetlands

Copulation, interspecific aggression and other observed behaviours in a breeding pair of Australian Eurasian Coots Fulica atra australis on a small urban wetland

“…Aggression events recorded in the present study involved nine of 23 waterbird species reported for the site in Mo & Waterhouse (2015), the majority of which are unlikely to pose threats to Coot nests or chicks. Similarly, Granville (1973) observed aggression towards non-threatening species such as ducks and swans (Anatidae).…”

“…The vegetation is mainly dominated by Flax-leaved Paperbark Melaleuca linariifolia, Prickly-leaved Paperbark M. styphelioides and Swamp She-oak Casuarina glauca. Mo & Waterhouse (2015) provided a more detailed description of the study site, including a list of 23 waterbird species recorded at the wetland between 2001 and 2014. The waterbird assemblage had not changed significantly during the observations in the present study.…”

“…Purple Swamphens have been known to usurp Coot nests (Brown & Brown 1980), and probably prey on Coot chicks based on known predation of other similar-sized waterbirds (Barker & Williams 2002;Balasubramaniam & Guay 2008). Similarly, the Dusky Moorhen has also been recorded attempting to prey on similar-sized waterbirds (Mo & Waterhouse 2015). The motivational triggers for Coots challenging other waterbirds remains unclear.…”

First observation of a Brolga Antigone rubicunda preying on eggs and of ‘water-kicking’ behaviour by Australasian Grebes Tachybaptus novaehollandiae as a nest-defence

“…Nesting of the Australasian Grebe Tachybaptus novaeholliandiae, including nest-defence, is not wellstudied (Marchant & Higgins 1993;Mo & Waterhouse 2015). Observers have reported opportunistic observations that when disturbed at the nest by people or machinery, Australasian Grebes usually cover the eggs with vegetation and then swim rapidly and quietly away (e.g.…”

Repetitive confrontations between Australian Ravens (Corvus coronoides) and lone Australasian Darters (Anhinga novaehollandiae)

“…Interspecific aggression is common in many birds (Mo and Waterhouse 2015;Wood et al 2017). The Australian Raven (Corvus coronoides), a resident of natural and modified habitats in northeastern and southern Australia (Moon 2005;Haslem and Bennett 2008;Lindenmayer et al 2009), engages in interspecific conflicts for several reasons.…”