Malleefowl

The Mali fowl is a remarkable bird known for its architectural prowess in nest building. These birds live mostly solitary lives but reunite during the breeding season to construct large nests. The male fowl builds a massive mound using soil and organic matter, which serves as an incubator for the eggs. The decomposing matter generates heat, maintaining a steady temperature for the eggs. After about two months, the chicks hatch and quickly become independent, avoiding contact with other Mali fowl until they are ready to build their own nests.

What is the primary role of the male Mali fowl during the breeding season?

• To lay eggs

• To build the nest

• To incubate the eggs

• To feed the chicks

How does the Mali fowl nest maintain the temperature needed for egg incubation?

• By using sunlight

• By using heated rocks

• Through the heat from decomposing organic matter

• With the warmth of the parent birds

What tool do male Mali fowls use to monitor the nest's temperature?

• Their eyes

• Their wings

• Their beaks

• Their feet

How long does it take for a Mali fowl chick to reach the surface after hatching?

• A few hours

• One day

• Three days

• Up to two days

What is the behavior of Mali fowl chicks after they hatch?

• They become independent and avoid other Mali fowls

• They immediately join other Mali fowls

• They rely on their parents for food

• They stay in the nest