The Eastern Great Egret is a white heron, it is common in Australia, the South Pacific and Asia. In New Zealand, where it is known as the kōtuku, and highly endangered, with only one breeding site at Okarito Lagoon. The species is protected in Australia under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974.
The Purple Swamphen, in New Zealand, where it is known as the Pūkeko. Pūkeko is probably one of the most recognised native birds in New Zealand with its distinctive colourings and habit. It look very similar to takahe, although takahe are much heavier.
The colour red was associated with nobility and power by Māori so the Pūkeko was held in high esteem because of its red beak and legs.
The Rifleman or Tītipounamu is one of only two surviving species within the ancient endemic New Zealand wren family. It is New Zealand’s smallest endemic bird, with fully grown adults reaching around 8 cm, weigh around 6g to 7g.
The fantail (Maori name: Piwakawaka) is one of New Zealand’s best known birds, as it is one of the few native bird species in New Zealand that has been able to adapt to an environment greatly altered by humans.
In Maori mythology, the piwakawaka is a messenger, bringing news of death from the gods to the people.
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