Australian Wood Duck

Chenonetta jubata is an Australian duck that has colonised New Zealand naturally. It differs from paradise shelduck through its smaller size, compact shape and strongly patterned grey-brown plumage. Males have a dark brown head and grey body, while females show pale facial stripes. Both have a short bill suited to grazing.

It is still local in New Zealand, mainly in northern and central North Island districts. It favours pasture and parkland close to ponds or slow water. It grazes grass and herbs more often than it dabbles. Pairs nest in tree hollows and lead ducklings to nearby feeding areas.

The New Zealand classification is Coloniser. Wetlands and farm ponds in Waikato offer a chance, but locations are less predictable than for common ducks.