The birth of four fluffy plains-wanderer chicks has provided a much-needed boost for the critically endangered species.
The golden-coated babies hatched at Werribee Open Range Zoo earlier this month and have joined its specialised threatened species program in a bid to save the birds from extinction.
The zoo says they are known for their quirky behaviour and are genetically distinct from any other species on the planet.
The babies weigh five to six grams each and were born following a romantic encounter between their parents, described by zoo keepers as a waltz.
Female plains-wanderers stand on their toes, bow their heads and chase males around with wings outstretched before the pair become locked in an intricate dance.
"Once the female has secured the male's interest, they circle and spin around one another repeatedly, closely side by side," keeper Malinda Delahant said.
Once the babies are born the male plays a very important caring role.
"He adorably grabs the empty eggshells in his beak, carries them and throws them away to protect the nest from predators," Ms Delahan said.
There are now 20 plains-wanderers living at the zoo and they will eventually be released into areas with habitat management strategies.
The number of birds in the wild has dropped 85 per cent over the past two decades and it's estimated there are fewer than 1000 adult birds remaining.
