Walkway Birds

Black Swans

There is usually a flock of between 20 to 40 Black Swans that frequent these lakes.  If you are quiet as you walk up to the lakes you will see them. Black Swans are native to NZ

Pheasants

Families of Pheasants are about this Walkway but you need to count yourself lucky if you see them. The Cock (male) has a vivid plumage, while the Hen (female) is rather dull but this gives mum a far better camouflage. They are introduced specie to NZ

Little Black Shag

The little Black Shag uses these lakes to fish for food.  They are excellent swimmers and will stay under water for ages.  You may see them in the distance sitting on posts close to the water but will fly off if one shows an interest.  They are native to NZ 

Swallows

Flocks of Swallows are often seen swooping over these lakes aerial feeding on the lake insects.  They were first recorded as breeding in New Zealand in 1958 having self-introduced themselves from Australia.   

Australasian bittern/matuku

The endangered matuku is native to NZ with a with a population of less than 1000.  It can be  found in wetlands in New Zealand, Australia and New Caledonia

Sound recordings: Australasian bittern/matuku territorial call (MP3, 1,886K)