What’s happening 2015 – January

 WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR AT THE BOTANIC GARDENS?

Towards the end of 2014 a pair of dusky moorhens built a nest at the side of the lake in the Gardens. A week or two later, five eggs were seen in the nest. Then, after a few more weeks, we were all very excited to see five little chicks swimming around while the two adults kept  very careful watch out for them.

These waterbirds are found on wetlands in south-east and eastern Australia

Submitted by Dawn Hooper, our resident Birdie

UPDATE in 2015

We still have two of the chicks now growing rapidly. Sadly, the tiny chicks are preyed upon by large eels that frequent the lake. These eels are common throughout Australian dams and lakes and feed on fish and frogs and other wildlife.

Periodically we have to employ a specially licensed catcher to remove them from the lake. They are exported to Asia where there are considered a delicacy.

You can support the work at the BOTANIC GARDENS by donating here or in the donation boxes at the Gardens and give all the dusky moorhens a chance to survive next year. 

To see more about the incredible life of eels look here

Question: What do eels have in common with this man?

Answer : Baby eels are are called elvers

For the lastest  update of the antics of the Dusky Moorhens have a look at our Botanic Gardens Newsletter