A MOOR HEN IN HUNTING MODE
Moorhens: The Garden's Most Territorial Bird
Moorhens, the most territorial birds in the garden, are a common sight. Males and females, both referred to as moorhens, are fiercely protective of their young, as some visitors have experienced firsthand.
The only visible difference between the sexes is size, with males being slightly larger. Both share the same striking blue-black plumage with white-tipped feathers and a vibrant red and yellow beak.
Their nests, typically constructed of dead vegetation like rushes, leaves, and grass, are built on the water's surface. However, they have also been observed nesting atop ivy-covered trees on an island in the lake.
Moorhens can lay up to six eggs, and both parents take turns incubating them for up to twenty-one days. This process may occur up to three times a year.
Widely regarded as the best parents in St. Fiachra's garden, moorhens forage both on land and in water, primarily for worms and insects. Their vigilance extends to predators, as evidenced by photographs of one moorhen stalking a potential threat within its territory. Despite their defensive nature, moorhens are quite shy and can be difficult to spot in the garden.
Additional Information About Moorhens:
Scientific Name: Gallinula chloropus
Lifespan: Up to 7 years
Diet: Omnivorous, includes seeds, fruits, snails, and small fish
Global Distribution: Found on every continent except Antarctica
Please note:
The term "waterhen" is often used interchangeably with "moorhen."
While moorhens are excellent parents, they are not the only birds in St. Fiachra's garden that exhibit strong parental care.
Moorhens, the most territorial birds in the garden, are a common sight. Males and females, both referred to as moorhens, are fiercely protective of their young, as some visitors have experienced firsthand.
The only visible difference between the sexes is size, with males being slightly larger. Both share the same striking blue-black plumage with white-tipped feathers and a vibrant red and yellow beak.
Their nests, typically constructed of dead vegetation like rushes, leaves, and grass, are built on the water's surface. However, they have also been observed nesting atop ivy-covered trees on an island in the lake.
Moorhens can lay up to six eggs, and both parents take turns incubating them for up to twenty-one days. This process may occur up to three times a year.
Widely regarded as the best parents in St. Fiachra's garden, moorhens forage both on land and in water, primarily for worms and insects. Their vigilance extends to predators, as evidenced by photographs of one moorhen stalking a potential threat within its territory. Despite their defensive nature, moorhens are quite shy and can be difficult to spot in the garden.
Additional Information About Moorhens:
Scientific Name: Gallinula chloropus
Lifespan: Up to 7 years
Diet: Omnivorous, includes seeds, fruits, snails, and small fish
Global Distribution: Found on every continent except Antarctica
Please note:
The term "waterhen" is often used interchangeably with "moorhen."
While moorhens are excellent parents, they are not the only birds in St. Fiachra's garden that exhibit strong parental care.
A MOOR HEN IN HUNTING MODE