Black-fronted dotterel facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Black-fronted dotterel |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Elseyornis
|
| Species: |
melanops
|
The black-fronted dotterel (Elseyornis melanops) is a small, thin bird that belongs to the plover family. It is found all over Australia and is also naturally from New Zealand. These birds are usually found near freshwater, like the edges of lakes and billabongs (which are like small, still lakes). They also like shallow, temporary pools that form in clay soil. Sometimes, but not often, you might see them on salty mudflats or in estuaries (where rivers meet the sea).
Black-fronted dotterels usually stay in one place. A single bird, a pair, or a family group will live in the same area for a long time. However, some birds do travel long distances. Sometimes, many of them gather together in places where there is a lot of food.
What They Look Like and Eat
Unlike many other wading birds, black-fronted dotterels look the same all year round. This makes them easier to identify! They have a distinctive black band across their forehead and chest, which gives them their name.
These birds find their food by running in short bursts. They hold their body low to the ground. Every now and then, they stop quickly to peck at something. They also make a rapid bobbing motion with their heads. Their diet is mostly made up of insects and other small creatures. They also eat a few seeds.
Life Cycle
Black-fronted dotterels lay their eggs in a nest. The eggs take about 4 to 5 weeks to hatch. Up to three eggs have been seen in a single nest.
After hatching, the baby chicks leave the nest very quickly, usually within 24 hours. They go to hide in safer, less open areas. Both parent birds look after the chicks, keeping them safe and helping them find food.
Gallery
-
Shortly after hatching
-
Chiltern, Victoria, Australia
-
Northern Territory, Australia
-
Atherton Tableland, Queensland, Australia
See also
In Spanish: Elseyornis melanops para niños
