Activity budgets of waterfowl (Anatidae) on a waste-stabilisation pond

Abstract

This study investigated the activity budgets of eight species of waterfowl on a waste-stabilisation pond known to support a large waterfowl community. Most species examined were found to use the area extensively for feeding. Pink-eared Duck (Malacorhynchus membranaceus), Australasian Shoveler (Anas rhynchotis), Grey Teal (A. gibberifrons) and Chestnut Teal (A. castanea) fed most intensively at sunrise and sunset, and rested during the middle of the day. Hardhead (Aythya australis), a diving species, Australian Shelduck (Tadorna tadornoides) and Pacific Black Duck (Anas superciliosa) - large birds that were presumably able to reach the benthos from the water's surface - fed at relatively cons..