The didapper mating ritual.

The Didapper, also known as the Little Grebe, has a fascinating and intricate mating ritual. During the breeding season, which typically occurs from March to August, males will establish territories and begin to court females.

The mating ritual starts with the male performing a series of elaborate displays to attract the attention of the female. These displays include a variety of postures and calls, such as a trilling call or a “penguin dance” where the male will rapidly flap his wings while standing upright in the water.

Once a female is interested, the pair will begin to build a floating nest together, using a variety of aquatic vegetation and other materials. The nest is typically located near the edge of the water and can be anchored to nearby vegetation or other structures.

The female will lay a clutch of 3 to 7 eggs, which both parents will incubate for around 3 weeks. After the eggs hatch, the parents will care for the chicks, feeding them a variety of small fish and invertebrates until they are able to fledge and leave the nest.

Throughout the breeding season, Didappers will continue to perform courtship displays and defend their territories against other males. The mating ritual of the Didapper is a remarkable example of the complex behaviors and adaptations that birds have evolved to ensure reproductive success.