Breeding of Red-capped Dotterel at Fletcher's Lake Dareton, NSW

Abstract

Red-capped Dotterels, nesting in 1967 at an inland lake, did so as a group. Forty-three nests were found along a stretch of 800 m out of the perimeter of I0 km; only one nest was found elsewhere. Birds travelled up to 3 km from their feeding area. Nesting sites are described; only those in damp places had substantial nesting material. Clutch-size was apparently two. Incubation and fledgeling periods could not be established, but habits during these periods and share of the sexes is discussed. Breeding success was probably very low, perhaps only 10 per cent. The laying period was from 29 June at Iatest to 27 September. Predation, the behaviour of the birds to predators, display and copulation are described.