Comb-crested Jacana
Irediparra gallinacea
NativeStatus
Fairly CommonRarity
Bird Gallery
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Species Description
The Comb-crested Jacana (*Irediparra gallinacea*), also known as the lotusbird or lily-trotter, is a unique wader found in freshwater wetlands with abundant floating vegetation across northern and eastern Australia. Famous for its extraordinarily long toes, this bird appears to "walk on water" as it forages on lily pads and other aquatic plants. Its specialised adaptations and unusual breeding system make it a fascinating species to observe in the field.
Fun Facts
Female Comb-crested Jacanas are up to 6% heavier than males-one of the most extreme examples of reverse sexual size dimorphism in birds.
1. Bright pinkish-red fleshy comb on the forehead in adults (absent or rudimentary in juveniles)
2. Exceptionally long toes and legs for walking on floating vegetation
3. Females are significantly larger than males, but plumage is similar
Comb-crested Jacanas inhabit freshwater wetlands with abundant floating vegetation, such as lagoons, billabongs, swamps, lakes, and slow-moving rivers across northern and eastern Australia, from the Kimberleys and Top End through Queensland to around Grafton, NSW. They are most common in the north and are rarely seen on dry land. Birds may disperse to new wetlands during the wet season or in response to habitat changes.
Physical Attributes
Height
21 cm
Size Relative to Other Birds44%
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