Duck Orchid

The duck orchid (Caleana major), which is found in southern and eastern Australia, is aptly named.

The duck-beak-shaped labellum can retract and momentarily capture insects. This gives the insect a good coating of pollen before it hopefully departs to the next duck orchid, thus increasing its chance of cross-pollination.

Between November and early January these orchids can sometimes be seen on the walk to Empress Canyon in areas where there is partial shade.

Caleana major is a very difficult orchid to cultivate.

Happy spotting.