Images Dated 2nd February 2005

Malleefowl / Lowan - pair at nest site

CAN-1098
Malleefowl / Lowan - pair at nest site
Australia
Leipoa ocellata
Also known as incubator bird / native pheasant or bush chook. Fm: Megapodes. Status: Vulnerable.
The malleefowl buries its eggs in the sand nest to incubate. The male tests the temperature of the nest mound by dipping his beak into it. If it is too warm or too cold he opens it up or adds more sand. Therefore he is able to keep the nest at a constant temperature of 34?C.
John Cancalosi
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