The display postures of the male Musk Duck

Abstract

Detailed study of display postures by male Musk Duck Biziura lobata in captivity has shown that there are no differences in the actions of birds when comparing those from western and eastern populations in Australia. Variation in the Paddle-kick, Plonk-kick and Whistle-kick are most likely due to different levels of display intensity by the individual, but an increasing competence at display is associated with increasing maturity of the performer. Several other supposed display postures are discussed. It was accepted that significant regional variation occurs in the call associated with these display postures, but this matter needs further investigation.