The Australian Coot
Whilst feeding the ducks at a large pond at Masterton recently, we were surprised to find a couple of unusual species not seen before! This bird was one of the surprises.
Subsequent research has revealed that this bird is an Australian Coot. Apparently, New Zealand had two endemic Coots, but both are now extinct! In the later 20th century, however, the Australian Coot became established in New Zealand. It was first recorded breeding in 1958 in the South Island’s Otago region, and by 2005, around 2,000 were scattered on lakes throughout both main Islands.
The bird is one of four subspecies of the Eurasian Coot which is native to Europe, northern Africa, Asia and greater Australasia; in New Zealand, this bird is now a protected self-introduced native.
Coots are mainly sooty black with a white bill and forehead shield. They superficially resemble Pukeko, but are smaller (and obviously differ in colour). They are mainly aquatic, and their heads rock back and forth as they swim.
Australian Coots dive to gather aquatic plants or invertebrates, which they bring back to the surface to swallow. They also graze ashore. Shallow bays on medium-sized lakes with plenty of raupō (bulrush) and other shelter are their usual habitat, but they also visit lakes in urban parks. Most long-distance flying is done at night.
The above includes extracts from the website: www.teara.govt.nz/en/wetland-birds/page-10
The Australian Coot
Whilst feeding the ducks at a large pond at Masterton recently, we were surprised to find a couple of unusual species not seen before! This bird was one of the surprises.
Subsequent research has revealed that this bird is an Australian Coot. Apparently, New Zealand had two endemic Coots, but both are now extinct! In the later 20th century, however, the Australian Coot became established in New Zealand. It was first recorded breeding in 1958 in the South Island’s Otago region, and by 2005, around 2,000 were scattered on lakes throughout both main Islands.
The bird is one of four subspecies of the Eurasian Coot which is native to Europe, northern Africa, Asia and greater Australasia; in New Zealand, this bird is now a protected self-introduced native.
Coots are mainly sooty black with a white bill and forehead shield. They superficially resemble Pukeko, but are smaller (and obviously differ in colour). They are mainly aquatic, and their heads rock back and forth as they swim.
Australian Coots dive to gather aquatic plants or invertebrates, which they bring back to the surface to swallow. They also graze ashore. Shallow bays on medium-sized lakes with plenty of raupō (bulrush) and other shelter are their usual habitat, but they also visit lakes in urban parks. Most long-distance flying is done at night.
The above includes extracts from the website: www.teara.govt.nz/en/wetland-birds/page-10