Not all ducks a welcome waterways sight
THE reasons behind the introduction of birds from one place to another are varied.
In the case of mallard ducks, they were probably brought to Australia simply to decorate ornamental lakes and ponds in our major cities. The first were released in the Melbourne Botanic Gardens in 1871 and 1872, and in Sydney and Perth around the same time.
Most domestic ducks are derived from this species, so they also came here as part of farming development.
In New Zealand, they were introduced over many years and have become a major environmental pest. Since they breed successfully with the native grey duck — the same species as our black duck — their impact has been huge. The native bird is virtually extinct.
Fortunately this hasn’t happened in Australia, although hybrid black duck/mallards have been recorded.
Recently at Balyang Sanctuary I was first greeted by a flotilla of mallards. I watched a male tagging along behind a (presumably) female black duck and his intent was obvious — well, it is close to their breeding season.
Mallards are not welcome in the Australian environment, and while they are not yet abundant, the risk remains.
It is illegal to release them, and for the sake of the native birdlife, it should never be done.
Wildlife information and questions can be sent to ppescott@gmail.com