07/04/2022
Caleana major, also called the Flying duck orchid. We can see why 😃
Caleana major, commonly known as the Large duck orchid and also called the Flying duck orchid, is a small orchid found in eastern and southern Australia. This species consists of a remarkable flower appearing like a duck in flight. The flower attracts insects such as male sawflies which pollinate the flower in a process known as pseudocopulation.
Caleana major is a tuberous, perennial herb, usually growing to a height of 20–40 cm (8–20 in) with a single reddish, narrow lance-shaped leaf, often spotted, emerging at its base. The labellum resembles the head of a duck on a strap-like "neck". When touched, the labellum turns rapidly downward, trapping a visiting insect between the labellum and column wings.
Photo by: Heinrich Cuno (cuno.heiner)
