The day was clear and sunny and I wandered down to the local man-made lake. I had hoped for some ducklings or cygnets and none were in evidence. However tucked in to the edge of the bullrushes were these fluffy scraps with yellow spikey scarves, red coloured heads and beaks.
Initially I thought they must be Pukeko chicks but the Pukeko’s usually live and nest in a more remote spot of the lake where the rushes are much thicker and matted.
When an adult Australian Coot appeared from the rushes it was very obvious that these chicks belonged to her, or him. A second adult appeared and with it another baby.
The parents busily fed the chicks and chased away any other duck that came too close to their young.
It is remarkable to see chicks with such different colourings to their parents when they are so young. A closer look at the babies’ beaks shows the tip to be white just like their parents.
ordinarygoodness 
so cute…
They are cute. Lively and I suspect relatively new to the world. A nice surprise today!
Lovely pics! I am sure that nature must have a reason why their feathers (or non-feathers!) are coloured like that. And, come to think of it, why the adults have that white headgear. It does make you wonder!
Thanks Jo. I really enjoyed reading your post on the Castle you visited….we have such different heritage here.
As for the Aussie Coots – the wee one’s reddish heads seem to make them more visible to predators. As you say nature will have its reasons.
Very cute indeed….and so very fluffy
I’ve not seen these babies before so it was a real treat. One of the joys of spring.
Such cuteness. And what lovely patterns and ripples on the water.
They are sweet. I am in awe of this new camera of mine and how it records patterns and ripples on water….my technical knowledge is almost non-existent but I am really enjoying the results.
That’s great. Each day there will be something new to learn. 🙂
Yes plenty to learn…..that is a good thing for sure.
And they are so little and light that the bullrushes can support their weight.
Ah ha you get the “virtual chocolate fish” for noting that amazing detail. While they looked little and light they swam with real strength and vigour, especially to get food from their parents.
Your bird photos are such a delight. This one is completely new to me. Thank you Lynley.
Thank you Juliet. Isn’t this Australian bird special? I love our bird life here in New Zealand. We are very fortunate.
Pingback: Family time at the Lake | ordinarygoodness
Pingback: More on the Australian Coot chicks | ordinarygoodness