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Comb-crested JacanaAlternative names: "Jesusbird", "Christbird", "Lotus-bird", "Comb-crested Parra", "Lily Trotter" Size: 20-27 cm |
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Habitat |
(for details refer to a field guide) |
Comb-crested Jacanas are only found in the tropical north of Australia, including inland billabongs, and along the east coast and eastern hill ranges of QLD and along a narrow coastal strip of northern NSW.
Comb-crested Jacanas live mostly around coastal or near-coastal freshwater, in lagoons, lakes or swamps.
Sightings
One Comb-crested Jacana was seen by us in the Northern Territory in 1997, walking on the leaves of water lilies. When near water level, i.e. not seeing the leaves just under the water's surface, one can easily understand how the Jacana came by its nickname "Jesusbird".
Also spotted by us in the wetlands of Capricorn Resort, Yeppoon, in July 2009. Special access to the wetlands kindly granted by the owners of Capricorn Resort is most gratefully acknowledged.
Photos
Jacana walking on the leaves of water lilies
Comb-crested Jacana wading in water (photo obtained in the wetlands of Capricorn Resort, Yeppoon, in July 2009; see credits page for details)
Comb-crested Jacana seen from behind; note how the comb is invisible (photo obtained in the wetlands of Capricorn Resort, Yeppoon, in July 2009; see credits page for details)
Lateral view of an immature Comb-crested Jacana wading in water (photo obtained in the wetlands of Capricorn Resort, Yeppoon, in July 2009; see credits page for details)
Immature Comb-crested Jacana seen from behind (photo obtained in the wetlands of Capricorn Resort, Yeppoon, in July 2009; see credits page for details)
