The Paradise Shelduck (Tadorna variegata) also known as the Paradise Duck, or Pūtangitangi in Māori, is a species of shelduck, a group of goose-like ducks, which is endemic to New Zealand.
This bird is common and is found over most of New Zealand. The female bird has a white head, and the male is a much darker bird. Individuals weigh between 1.4 and 1.7 kg and are about 65cm in length. Paradise Shelducks mate for life and usually live as pairs. These birds, which I take to be a bounded pair, were on the beach at Oban on Stewart Island. This species is largely herbivorous, and mostly graze on pasture grasses and clover, but have been observed eating a wide range of invertebrates.
Both of these birds were drinking and washing in a small stream (or possibly stormwater drain) that was flowing over the beach.
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Hari OM
ReplyDeleteA very smart looking bird indeed! YAM xx
Hello Stewart, thanks for sharing these beautiful critters.
ReplyDeleteAll the best!
It is so special. The white head stands out
ReplyDeleteI like the colors of the female, a patchwork of several varieties of web-footed birds!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful photos! I love the colors of the Paradise Shelducks.
ReplyDeleteA very beautiful little duck - like all shelducks, in fact.
ReplyDeleteSuch a handsome couple. The female sure stands out with that white head!
ReplyDeleteGood looking ducks!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful blog
ReplyDeleteWhat a pretty Duck..Love it's colors..new one to me!!
ReplyDeletewhite head look very interesting..... beautiful
ReplyDeleteWe are a 'Snap' this week. Your Shelduck is really lovely Stewart. Thanks for hosting and commenting. Have a great week ahead.
ReplyDeleteBardzo mi się podoba, nie znałam do tej pory tego ptaka, gratuluję obserwacji i zdjęć.
ReplyDelete