This bird is particularly known for its remarkable ability to seemingly walk on water. But how does it manage this? The secret lies in its incredibly long toes and claws, which evenly distribute its body weight, allowing it to gracefully stride across floating vegetation in freshwater wetlands, ponds, and lakes.

The most distinctive feature of the comb-crested jacana is, undoubtedly, its striking comb. This feature, from which it derives its name, is a fleshy red wattle positioned on the forehead, which is more pronounced in males. This comb not only adds to their distinctive look but also plays a role during mating season, helping them attract partners.

The plumage of the comb-crested jacana is mainly black and white, with a striking contrast that makes it easily recognizable. The bird has a predominantly black body with a white face and neck and a brownish back. Juveniles, however, don a more muted brown appearance, gaining a more dramatic black and white as they mature.

In terms of behavior, the comb-crested jacana is known for its unique mating system called polyandry, where one female mates with multiple males. This is quite rare among birds. The female takes the lead in courtship, and once she lays her eggs, she leaves them for the male to incubate and look after the chicks when they hatch. This role reversal makes the comb-crested jacana particularly interesting in studies of bird behavior.

Their diet mainly consists of insects and other small invertebrates, which they pick from the water surface or vegetation. Sometimes, they might also consume seeds and aquatic plants, adding a bit of variety to their diet.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Australia

2016

East Timor

2016

Indonesia

2016

Malaysia

2016

Papua New Guinea

2016

Philippines

2016