large spatulate bill; black eye patch; barred underparts (Zoo; 2008-10-21)


Pink-eared Duck
Malacorhynchus membranaceus

Native Range: Australia

Notes: a large spatulate bill adds to this duck's unmistakable appearance; belongs to its own genus and is not closely related to most dabbling ducks; usually found on or near standing water especially in dry interior regions of the continent; strains plankton and other small food items from the water and its muddy substrates; little sexual dimorphism.

dorsal view; brown crown, back, and upperparts (Zoo; 2008-10-21)
note that the bird really does have a pink ear (Zoo; 2008-10-21)

posing for a body portrait (Zoo; 2008-10-21)
posing for a head portrait (Zoo; 2008-10-21)