This common species is thought to be ancestral to other waterfowl. Its toes are only partly webbed, thus the specific epithet semipalmata.It is classified in its own monotypic family (Anseranatidae) and genus (Anseranas). The species was formerly more widespread but numbers were reduced because of overhunting and habitat destruction, especially in the southern parts of Australia. Reintroduction programs have been established locally in Victoria and South Australia. However in the north, numbers are healthy and close to historic levels. The entire world population has been estimated at about five million birds.
Digiscoped with Panasonic DMC-LZ5 | Nikon FieldScope III | 30XWA | hand-held (no adapter)