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Hardhead |
Sightings
A Hardhead was possibly spotted by us in March 2008, 50 km west of Walgett, NSW. However, due to the large distance at which the bird was spotted, its identification is uncertain.
Spotted and identified without doubt, on Narrabri Lake, Narrabri, north-western NSW, in December 2008. Seen there again in August 2010, when at least 12 birds were counted.
Seen again on Storm Lake Dam, southern QLD, in July 2009.
Photos
Near-frontal view of a male Hardhead
Lateral view of a male Hardhead
Lateral view of a female Hardhead
Here a male bird (right) together with a female (left; click on image for larger version)
Male Hardhead displaying its white underwing feathers and undertail coverts; it is seen here together with a Pacific Black Duck (click on image for larger version)
Pair of Hardheads on Narrabri Lake (click on image for larger version showing a second pair of Hardheads, plus a Pacific Black Duck for comparison)
Three male Hardheads on Storm Lake Dam, in morning mist (click on image for larger version)
Habits
Hardheads are known to be diving ducks and have been observed by us to do so. They can stay under water for a considerable time and over considerable distances.