These Black-tailed native hens were filmed on an inland section of the Murchison River in Western Australia. They were going about their daily routine including foraging in the brackish waters edge several times a day and then retreated into the riverbank..
The Black-tailed native hen (Thanindi in Wajarri language) although predominantly dark colored; a brownish color on their back and an iridescent dark blue on their chest, are also quite colorful. The Black-tailed native hen has, as their name suggests, a black tail together with a pale greenish bill with a pale red/orange on the lower bill close to the neck. The wings have white spots, legs and feet are a reddish color and to finish off the color, they have a yellow ring around their eyes. They have been likened to the domestic chook (chicken).
Native to Australia, the Black-tailed native hen is found in all mainland states. They are a waterfowl and can be found in pairs, small and sometimes large groups hanging around in wetlands or the brackish water of riverbanks. The Black-tailed native hen can be seen strutting around either on land or the banks of waterways, displaying their tail which they hold erect.
The diet of Black-tailed native hens consists of plant material, seeds and insects. Infact, they're known to run in the water then stop, to stir up insects which they then feed on. They're opportunists and will breed when water is plentiful and therefore their numbers will increase suddenly.
It can be difficult to get close to them, they're sensitive to movement and if disturbed, will run away very fast, generally into the safety of nearby vegetation. Though in this case the DJI Mavic 3 Pro drone allowed the videoing of the hens from a distance that did not disturb them.
We hope you enjoy this video.
Videoed in 4K (60fps) with DJI Mavic 3 Pro drone
Take nothing but photos/video,
Leave nothing but footprints and
Kill nothing but time.
Chapters:
0:26 - Australian Black Tailed Native Hens
0:40 - Having a bite to eat
1:47 - The Murchison River
30 сен 2024
