A fisher's guide: New Zealand Coastal Seabirds - Department of Conservation
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A fisher’s guide: New Zealand Coastal Seabirds In this companion guide to New Zealand Seabirds you can learn about more seabirds that you may see in New Zealand’s EEZ. From Australasian gannets to yellow-eyed penguins, this guide details distinguishing characteristics, ecology, range and potential threats to each species. It also provides the current New Zealand conservation status of each species and the MPI species codes to assist fishers in accurately recording species interactions. Protection of seabirds is provided under the Wildlife Act 1953. Most of the birds in this guide breed only in New Zealand and many face a number of threats, including interacting with commercial and recreational fisheries.
List of seabirds found in this guide
Gannets Shags Pitt Island shag North Island little shearwater
Stictocarbo featherstoni Puffinus assimilis haurakiensis
Australasian gannet Chatham Island shag
Spotted shag Cook’s petrel
Morus serrator Leucocarbo onslowi
Stictocarbo punctatus Pterodroma cookii
Gulls New Zealand king shag
Leucocarbo carunculatus Penguins Pycroft’s petrel
Pterodroma pycrofti
Black-backed gull (kelp gull) Otago shag Fiordland crested penguin
Larus dominicanus dominicanus Leucocarbo chalconotus Eudyptes pachyrhynchus Storm-petrels
Black-billed gull Foveaux shag Little blue penguin Black-bellied storm-petrel
Larus bulleri Leucocarbo stewarti Eudyptula minor Fregetta tropica
Red-billed gull (silver gull) Black shag Yellow-eyed penguin Grey-backed storm-petrel
Larus novaehollandiae Phalacrocorax carbo Megadyptes antipodes Garrodia nereis
scopulinus novaehollandiae
Terns Little black shag Mid-sized petrels New Zealand storm-petrel
Fregetta maoriana
Phalacrocorax sulcirostris and shearwaters New Zealand white-faced
Black-fronted tern
Little shag storm-petrel
Chlidonias albostriatus Fluttering shearwater
Phalacrocorax melanoleucos Pelagodroma marina maoriana
Puffinus gavia
Caspian tern brevirostris
Hydroprogne caspia Hutton’s shearwater
Pied shag
Puffinus huttoni
White-fronted tern Phalacrocorax varius varius
Sterna striata striata
NZ Conservation Status: Not Threatened
Species Group: Australasian gannet MPI group code: XSU
MPI species code: XGT
Gannets
Morus serrator
Feeding and range
Eats: Fish and squid.
Range: When not breeding, gannets, or takapu,
disperse widely over the continental shelf,
including harbours, estuaries, bays, and fiords.
Juvenile gannets migrate to Australia and are
common off eastern and southern Australia
ranging as far west as the Indian Ocean.
Image: Derek Stokes, Macaulay Library
Image: DOC at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology
Distinguishing characteristics
Interesting Facts !?
• Large seabird (84-91 cm in length)
• White body with dusty yellow colouring on top of head Gannets plunge dive from great heights in
pursuit of their prey. When diving they can reach
• White wings with dark flight feathers speeds up to 145 km an hour and dive to depths
• Wingspan approximately 1.7 – 2 metres of more than 15 metres.
• Long pale grey bill Gannets are specially adapted for plunge diving.
For example, they have air sacs in their lower
• Short, thick black legs
neck to help cushion the impact when they hit
Juvenile features: Mottled grey-brown plumage that lightens each year the water.
until they reach maturity. Adult plumage takes three years to develop.
Breeding and ecology Threats
Breeding sites: Numerous small islands, At sea On land
as well as the mainland in New Zealand. A few gannets are caught in trawl The main threat to mainland gannet
Colonies are found at the Three Kings, fisheries and by line-fishing techniques colonies is disturbance by dogs
Poor Knights and Mokohinau Islands, islands such as trolling for kahawai. and humans.
off Great Barrier Island, the Coromandel
Peninsula, White Island, west coast of the Gannets have been found dead on Gannets at mainland colonies can,
North Island, Tolaga Bay, Cape Kidnappers beaches after swallowing fish hooks however, become tolerant of people
and Black Rocks. South Island breeding sites or becoming entangled in fishing line. as long as they keep their distance
are at Farewell Spit, Marlborough Sounds Gannets tend to take non-commercial from the colony itself.
and Little Solander Island. fish such as pilchards or small size The colony on White Island has to
New Zealand is the primary breeding location classes of commercial fish stocks. survive periodic volcanic eruptions,
for this species but around 13% of the Periodic die-offs of pilchards and other and some eggs and chicks are lost
population breeds in Australia. fish appear to increase gannet in thermal areas.
mortality rates. The largest recorded
Breeding period: Gannets return to their wreck of gannets on New Zealand
breeding colonies around June/July each beaches occurred in 1995 when 283
year. Both parents take turns protecting first gannets died of starvation due to a
the egg and then the chick. pilchard die-off event.
Frequency of breeding: Annual.
Number of eggs: One egg, but can replace
it if the egg is lost.
Nesting: Gannets usually breed in large
colonies. Nests are made within close
proximity to others. Nest material consists
of seaweed and guano.
NZ Conservation Status: Not Threatened
Species Group: Black-backed gull (kelp gull) MPI group code: XSG
MPI species code: XBG
Gulls
Larus dominicanus dominicanus
Feeding and range
Eats: Black-backed gulls, or karoro, are
opportunistic feeders. They scavenge on
carcasses of whales, seals, fish and birds.
Also feeds on eggs, chicks and adult birds,
and catches small fish. Frequently scavenges
at landfills.
Range: Gulls disperse over coastal and
continental seas, land, lakes and rivers.
Image: © M. P. Pierre Image: © M. P. Pierre
The same species is common on coasts
of temperate and subantarctic landmasses
Distinguishing characteristics around the southern hemisphere.
• Very large gull (49-62 cm in length) – largest gull in New Zealand
• White head and body
• Upperwings are black with some white on the tips
• Underwings are white
Interesting Facts !?
• Bright yellow bill with a red dot on the lower bill They open shellfish by picking them up and flying
straight up before dropping them on the sand,
• Pale greenish-yellow legs and feet rocks or asphalt so that the shell will break.
Juvenile features: Although a similar size, juveniles look like a completely
different bird, with mottled brown plumage and black bills and feet. Juveniles
do not develop full adult plumage until they are about three years old.
This seabird species is not protected in New Zealand
under The Wildlife Act 1953.
Breeding and ecology Threats
Breeding sites: Breeds in loose colonies At sea On land
or individually throughout New Zealand,
Black-backed gulls, which Mustelids (especially stoats and ferrets) and
including on numerous offshore islands.
often scavenge prey items, are feral cats take eggs and chicks at mainland
This species also breeds in eastern and prone to ingesting plastic or colonies. Norway rats may also take eggs
southern Australia, the Antarctic Peninsula, getting entangled in plastics. and chicks at some colonies. Other possible
South America and South Africa and many introduced predators include hedgehogs.
Has been recorded as
subantarctic islands.
bycatch in commercial Uncontrolled dogs are a major threat to chicks.
Breeding period: Returns to breeding sites fisheries. Human disturbance is a primary cause of nest
in October. Incubation is completed in 25-30
failure. Motorbikes and 4WD vehicles on
days and chicks fledge at about 50 days.
beaches or riverbeds disturb nesting birds and
Frequency of breeding: Annual. sometimes destroy nest sites. Dense growth of
Number of eggs: Two to three eggs, and can willows, lupins, broom and gorse on riverbeds
lay up to three clutches if eggs are damaged has limited the available nesting habitat. This
or lost. has been exacerbated by hydro-electric dams
and water extraction reducing flood events that
Nesting: Nests on the mainland at beaches,
scour riverbed clear of vegetation.
estuaries, sandspits, shellbanks, lake
margins, rocky headlands, riverbeds, Hydro lake development has decreased the
farmland, roofs of buildings and even available habitat for riverbed breeding species.
on mountain-tops. Extraction of gravel from riverbeds has had
a major impact on nesting birds in Southland.
NZ Conservation Status: Threatened – Nationally Critical
Species Group: Black-billed gull MPI group code: XSG
MPI species code: XBL
Gulls
Larus bulleri
Feeding and range
Eats: Insects, small fish and will also scavenge.
Range: Breeds only in New Zealand. Black-billed
gulls disperse widely in the winter after breeding.
Some have been recorded inland over farmland,
lakes and rivers but most flock at coastal
estuaries and over inshore seas. Birds regularly
visit Stewart Island and occasionally the Snares
Islands.
Image: © M. P. Pierre Image: DOC. Photographer Andrew Walmsley
Distinguishing characteristics
• Small gull (35-38 cm in length)
• White head and body
• Long, thin black bill
• Wings are grey on top with narrow black tips and white underneath
Interesting Facts !?
• Dark legs and feet In New Zealand the black-billed gull, or tarāpuka
is considered in serious decline and is vulnerable
• Similar size and colouring to red-billed gulls, but the black-billed gull to predation. For example, over a two-month
is paler, with less black on the wing tips period in 2006, one cat and a ferret killed
• Adults are easily distinguished by bill colour hundreds of black-billed gull chicks on the
Aparima River in Southland.
Juvenile features: Similar features, but darker wings, and pale bill and legs.
Breeding and ecology Threats
Breeding sites: Breeds on both the North At sea On land
Island and South Island. Key South Island
Few known threats at sea. The most serious threat to gull populations is
strongholds are in Southland (Mataura, Oreti,
from mammalian predators such as Norway
Aparima and Waiau rivers) and Canterbury
rats, ship rats, cats, stoats, ferrets, hedgehogs,
(Ashburton, Opihi, and Waiau rivers).
possums, pigs, and dogs. All these predators
Although the population is in decline, black- take eggs and most are capable of killing adults
billed gulls have been expanding their range and chicks.
northwards in the past 30 years and now nest
Farmed or feral stock can impact gulls by
at the Kaipara and Manukau harbours.
trampling nests or increasing erosion.
Breeding period: Returns to breeding
Recreational activities (e.g. fishing, hunting,
colonies in September. Incubation is
swimming or picnicking) near gull nests can
completed in 20-25 days and chicks fledge
cause nest failure or abandonment especially
in about 26 days.
if people spend too much time near the nests.
Frequency of breeding: Annual. Colonies can be destroyed by off-road vehicles.
Number of eggs: Two to three eggs. Dense growth of willows, lupins, broom and
Type of nests: Nests on braided rivers gorse on riverbeds has limited the available
on the South Island. On the North Island, nesting habitat. This has been exacerbated
black-billed gulls nest on sandspits, by hydro-electric dams and water extraction
shellbanks, margins of lakes and riverflats, reducing flood events that scour riverbed clear
and some geothermal sites. of vegetation.
Hydro lake development has decreased the
available habitat for riverbed breeding species.
Extraction of gravel from riverbeds has had
a major impact on nesting birds in Southland.
NZ Conservation Status: At Risk – Declining
Species Group: Red-billed gull (silver gull) MPI group code: XSG
MPI species code: XRB
Gulls
Larus novaehollandiae scopulinus
Feeding and range
Eats: In coastal environments eats plankton,
small fish and marine invertebrates. In urban
environments will scavenge on refuse.
Range: This subspecies is found only in
New Zealand. It is found mainly in coastal areas
and on offshore islands, although it is also found
at Lake Rotorua in the North Island.
Image: © M. P. Pierre Image: © M. P. Pierre
Distinguishing characteristics
• Small gull (36-44 cm in length)
• White head and bodies
• Wings are grey on top with narrow black tips and white underneath
Interesting Facts !?
• Red bill as adult One of the few seabird species to be recorded
nesting as a yearling. Red-billed gulls and
• Orange-red legs and feet black-billed gulls often breed in the same colonies.
Juvenile features: Similar features, but browner on wings and bills They have also been known to interbreed.
and legs are dull.
Breeding and ecology Threats
Breeding sites: Breeding colonies are found At sea On land
in many coastal areas and offshore islands.
Few known threats at sea, The most serious threat to gull populations is
One of the largest breeding colonies is found
although has been caught from mammalian predators such as Norway
on the Kaikōura Peninsula.
in commercial fisheries. rats, ship rats, cats, stoats, ferrets, hedgehogs,
Breeding period: Returns to breeding possums, pigs and dogs. All these predators
colonies in October. Incubation is completed take eggs and most are capable of killing adults
in 24-27 days and chicks fledge in about and chicks.
37 days.
Recreational activities (e.g. fishing, hunting,
Frequency of breeding: Annual. swimming or picnicking) near gull nests can
Number of eggs: One to three eggs, and cause nest failure or abandonment especially
can lay up to three clutches if eggs are if people spend too much time near the nests.
damaged or lost. Off-road vehicles can destroy colonies on
sandspits and shellbanks and in riverbeds.
Type of nests: Nests are built out of
seaweed and plant material. A few birds are occasionally shot illegally.NZ Conservation Status: Threatened – Nationally Endangered
Species Group: Black-fronted tern MPI group code: XTE
Terns
Chlidonias albostriatus
Feeding and range
Eats: Insects and small fish.
Range: New Zealand endemic breeding only
in the South Island. Birds disperse after breeding
to coastal and inshore seas from Stewart Island
to southern North Island with a few reaching
Hawke’s Bay, Bay of Plenty and Kaipara Harbour.
Image: © M. P. Pierre Image: © M. P. Pierre
Distinguishing characteristics
Interesting Facts !?
• Small tern (28-30 cm in length)
• White head with a black cap during breeding The black-fronted tern, or tarapiroe, is in serious
decline and is listed as nationally endangered.
• Yellow-orange bill
Although terns are considered seabirds, black-
• Pale rump contrasts with grey wings fronted terns are also frequently seen far inland
• Tail is forked during their breeding season, and often hawk
for insects over pasture and behind ploughs.
• Orange legs and feet
Juvenile features: Similar features as adults, but have only a partial
black cap.Breeding and ecology Threats
Breeding sites: Breeds only in the South At sea On land
Island. Mainly breed on riverbeds in the
Few known threats at sea. The most serious threat to tern populations is
eastern South Island from Marlborough to
from mammalian predators such as Norway
Southland, but a few occasionally nest on
rats, ship rats, cats, stoats, ferrets, hedgehogs,
rivers in Westland.
possums, pigs and dogs. All these predators
Breeding period: Begins to return to their take eggs and most are capable of killing adults
breeding colonies in September. Eggs take and chicks.
22-26 days to incubate and chicks fledge in
Farmed or feral stock can impact terns by
about 30 days.
trampling nests or increasing erosion.
Frequency of breeding: Annual.
Recreational activities (e.g. fishing, hunting,
Number of eggs: Lays one to three eggs. swimming or picnicking) near tern nests can
Can lay up to three clutches if eggs are cause nest failure or abandonment especially
damaged or lost. if people spend too much time near the nests.
Type of nests: Small colonies on riverbeds Colonies can be destroyed by off-road vehicles.
and shingle banks. Dense growth of willows, lupins, broom and
gorse on riverbeds has limited the available
nesting habitat. This has been exacerbated
by hydro-electric dams and water extraction
reducing flood events that scour riverbed clear
of vegetation.
Hydro lake development has decreased the
available habitat for riverbed breeding species.
Extraction of gravel from riverbeds has had
a major impact on nesting birds in Southland.NZ Conservation Status: Threatened – Nationally Vulnerable
Species Group: Caspian tern MPI group code: XTE
Terns
Hydroprogne caspia
Feeding and range
Eats: Mainly fish and insects.
Range: In New Zealand, Caspian terns tend to
disperse northwards after breeding but can be
seen around the entire coastline of New Zealand.
A few stragglers have reached the Chatham
Islands and Kermadec Islands.
Elsewhere, the species breeds in Australia, Asia,
Image: © M. P. Pierre Image: © M. P. Pierre Africa, Madagascar, Europe and North America.
Distinguishing characteristics
• World’s largest tern (47-54 cm in length)
• White body and lower half of head
• Distinctive black cap on top half of head during breeding
• Upperwings silver-grey
Interesting Facts !?
• Underwings white with charcoal-grey primary feathers Caspian terns, or taranui, are particularly sensitive
to disturbance early in the nesting period.
• Massive, orange-red bill with black tip
• Black legs and feet
Juvenile features: Wings are browner in colour and cap on head is browner,
with a streaked forehead.Breeding and ecology Threats
Breeding sites: This species breeds At sea On land
throughout the North and South Islands
Not known at this time. Southern black-backed gulls are the main
but mainly in coastal areas in Northland,
predator of Caspian tern colonies and eggs
Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Wairarapa,
and chicks are frequently attacked.
Nelson, Canterbury and Southland regions.
Birds nest inland on islands and sandspits at Caspian terns are also at risk when nesting on
Lake Rotorua and on Canterbury riverbeds. beaches especially at sites where people can
drive motorbikes or 4WD vehicles through
Breeding period: Spring/summer, incubation
nesting colonies.
is completed in 26-28 days and chicks fledge
in 35-45 days. Mammalian predators, such as Norway rats,
ship rats, cats, stoats, ferrets, hedgehogs,
Frequency of breeding: Annual.
pigs and uncontrolled dogs are another serious
Number of eggs: One to three eggs, and threat. All these predators take eggs, and most
can lay up to three clutches if eggs are are capable of killing adults and chicks.
damaged or lost.
On the mainland, the planting of coastal margins
Type of nests: Caspian terns build nests on in marram grass and pine plantations has
the ground. They require sandspits, sandy restricted habitat for Caspian terns.
beaches and shellbanks for their nesting
sites. On the coasts they tend to nest in large
colonies. Those that breed along rivers are
more often solitary nesters.NZ Conservation Status: At Risk – Declining
Species Group: White-fronted tern MPI group code: XTE
MPI species code: XSR
Terns
Sterna striata striata
Feeding and range
Eats: Fish and sometimes insects.
Range: Breeds mainly in New Zealand. Disperses
over coastal waters and the continental shelf.
Juveniles and some adults migrate to southern
and eastern Australia each winter.
Image: © M. P. Pierre Image: © M. P. Pierre
Distinguishing characteristics
• Medium-sized tern (35-43 cm in length)
• White body and white throat
• Breeding plumage may include a pink flush on underbody
• Black cap on top of head with white forehead
Interesting Facts !?
• Upperwings are pale grey, underwings white with pale grey primary feathers The white-fronted tern, or tara, are the most
common tern in New Zealand.
• Long, deeply forked tail
Like other terns, white-fronted terns feed near
• Black bill legs and feet the surface. They make shallow dives into the
Juvenile features: Mottled upper wing and back and less defined black cap. water in search of prey – mainly small fish.Breeding and ecology Threats
Breeding sites: Many colonies occur on At sea On land
predator-free offshore islands and stacks.
White-fronted terns are Introduced predators are a key threat at
Breeds around the coasts and offshore
occasionally caught on mainland colonies. Mustelids (especially stoats
islands of New Zealand. A few colonies occur
fishing lines, especially when and ferrets) and feral cats take eggs, chicks and
inland on riverbeds in the South Island.
recreational fishers are trolling adults. Norway rats may also take eggs
Also breeds at the Auckland and Chatham through schools of kahawai. and chicks. Other possible introduced predators
islands and on islands in Bass Strait, include hedgehogs and possums.
Tasmania.
Uncontrolled dogs are a major threat to eggs
Breeding period: Between October and and chicks.
January, incubation is completed in 20-25
Human disturbance is a primary cause of nest
days and chicks fledge in 29-35 days.
failure on the mainland. People driving
Frequency of breeding: Annual. motorbikes and 4WD vehicles on dunes disturb
Number of eggs: One to three eggs, but can nesting birds and sometimes destroy nest sites.
lay up to three clutches if eggs are damaged People walking, fishing, sunbathing, swimming
or lost. or picnicking near white-fronted tern nests can
Type of nests: Nests in large colonies or in cause nest failure or abandonment if people
small groups on beaches, shingle banks or spend too much time near the nests.
rock stacks.NZ Conservation Status: Threatened – Nationally Critical
Species Group: Chatham Island shag MPI group code: XHG
MPI species code: XCS
Shags
Leucocarbo onslowi
Feeding and range
Eats: Fish and squid.
Range: Breeds only in the Chatham Islands.
The species has not been recorded away from
the Chatham Islands.
Usually feed deep offshore, but occasionally
feed close inshore. Usually feed alone or in small
groups, but often roost in large flocks.
Image: DOC. Photographer Rod Morris Image: DOC. Photographer Dick Veitch
Distinguishing characteristics
• Medium-sized shag (63 cm in length), bulkier than Pitt Island shag
• Black head with blue around eye and orange above and below bill
• Mottled pink bill
Interesting Facts !?
• White on belly and black on back The largest colonies of Chatham Island shags
occur at predator-free sites.
• Upperwings black with some white markings
Shags incubate with their feet placed under
• Pink feet their eggs so a sudden scare (from humans
• Similar in appearance to the king shag and pied morph of Foveaux or predators) can result in eggs being thrown
and Otago shags out of nests as birds become airborne.Breeding and ecology Threats
Breeding sites: Breeds only in the At sea On land
Chatham Islands. Chatham Island shags have been The largest colonies occur at predator-
Breeding period: Spring/summer. reported bycaught in crayfish pots. free sites, but some colonies are still
Frequency of breeding: Annual. Set netting presents a potential risk present on Chatham Island and are
to this species although this method at risk from feral cats, weka, possums,
Number of eggs: Usually three eggs, pigs, sheep, cattle, dogs and people.
and can replace clutches if lost. of fishing is uncommon at the
Chatham Islands. Disturbance by sheep, cattle and
Type of nests: Nests on cliffs and offshore people can lead to birds stampeding
islands. Nests are built on platforms and from nests with subsequent breakage
constructed out of twigs, seaweed and of eggs or predation of nest contents
other vegetation. by gulls.NZ Conservation Status: Threatened – Nationally Endangered
Species Group: New Zealand king shag MPI group code: XHG
MPI species code: XKS
Shags
Leucocarbo carunculatus
Feeding and range
Eats: Fish, especially the non-commercial
flatfish ‘witch’.
Range: Endemic to New Zealand; breeds
only in the outer Marlborough Sounds.
Image: DOC. Photographer Andy Cox Image: DOC. Photographer CD Roderick
Distinguishing characteristics Interesting Facts !?
The population of New Zealand king shag,
• Large shag (76 cm in length)
or kawau pāteketeke, is approximately
• Dark head with blue eye ring 840 individuals.
• Facial skin turns bright red during the breeding season The New Zealand king shag Te Kawau-a-Toru
• Dark bill with an orange spot at its base was considered a loyal pet of Kupe who was
the first Polynesian to discover New Zealand.
• White throat and belly with dark upper body
Shag species belong to three groups based
• Dark wings with some white bar markings
on the colour of their feet: Black, yellow or pink.
• Pink feet King shags belong to the pink-footed group,
• Similar in appearance to Chatham Island shag and pied morph which are all entirely marine.
of Foveaux and Otago shagsBreeding and ecology Threats Breeding sites: Breeds only on islands At sea On land in the Marlborough Sounds, South Island. Set netting, especially near the Vulnerable to human disturbance Colonies occur at Duffers Reef, North Trios, breeding colonies, presents a and do not tolerate people landing Sentinel Rock and White Rocks. potential risk to this species. on breeding islands or even the close Breeding period: Winter. There is a potential risk to this approach of boats (within 100 m). Frequency of breeding: Annual. species from fish traps and pot Low-flying aircraft disturb breeding Number of eggs: One to three eggs. fishing techniques. king shags. Other details of breeding poorly known. Marine farms may pose Type of nests: Build nests on rocky cliffs a potential risk. and sheer ledges.
NZ Conservation Status: Threatened – Nationally Vulnerable
Species Group: Foveaux shag MPI group code: XHG
MPI species code: XFO
Shags
Leucocarbo stewarti
Feeding and range
Eats: Fish.
Range: This species occurs around Stewart
Island and Foveaux Strait. Unlike its near relative
the Otago shag, the Foveaux shag’s distribution
has not changed since prehistoric times. It is
a coastal species, feeding in waters less than
30 m deep.
Image: DOC. Photographer Brian Bell Image: DOC. Photographer Brian Bell
Distinguishing characteristics
• Large shag (around 65 cm in length)
• Pink feet
The Foveaux shag has two very different colour patterns (called morphs).
Interesting Facts !?
About 50-60% of the species population is pied. These birds are black above The Foveaux shag, together with the Otago
and white below, with a white wing bar. The rest of the population is entirely shag, used to be considered one species – the
brownish black. The population is estimated at around 2,500. Stewart Island shag. The species were officially
Distinguishing Foveaux and Otago shags is best done by their range, as some split in 2016.
other features that separate them are difficult to observe.Breeding and ecology Threats
Breeding sites: Nests on islands and At sea On land
sea cliffs. The same sites are used
This species may be Some nesting areas may be at risk from
year to year.
caught in set nets. land-based predators such as mustelids,
Breeding period: Late winter through spring, cats and rodents. Birds are also sensitive
late summer. to disturbance and will temporarily abandon
Frequency of breeding: Annual. their nests if disturbed.
Number of eggs: One to three eggs.
Type of nests: Colonial nesters, with
cup-shaped nest platforms made of
organic material and droppings.NZ Conservation Status: At Risk – Recovering
MPI group code: XHG
Species Group:
Shags
Otago shag MPI species code: XOS
Leucocarbo chalconotus
Feeding and range
Eats: Fish.
Range: This species currently occurs around
Otago Harbour, Taiaroa Head, Green Island,
Aramoana, Oamaru and the Catlins. In pre-
human times, this shag was found right along
the east coast of the South Island, as far north
as Marlborough. Otago shags are truly coastal
seabirds. They feed close to shore in waters
less than 30 m deep.
Image: Courtesy Danilo Hegg Image: Courtesy Danilo Hegg
Distinguishing characteristics
• Large shag (around 70 cm in length)
• Pink feet
Interesting Facts !?
The Otago shag has two very different colour patterns (called morphs).
About 20-30% of the species population is pied. These birds are black The Otago shag, together with the Foveaux
above and white below, with a white wing bar. The rest of the population shag, used to be considered one species – the
is entirely brownish black. There may only be around 2,500 Otago shags Stewart Island shag. The species were officially
remaining today. split in 2016.
Distinguishing Otago and Foveaux shags is best done by their range,
as some other features that separate them are difficult to observe.Breeding and ecology Threats
Breeding sites: Nests on islands and At sea On land
sea cliffs. The same sites are used
This species may be Nesting colonies may be at risk from land-based
year to year.
caught in set nets. predators such as mustelids, cats and rodents.
Breeding period: Winter through spring, Birds are also sensitive to disturbance and will
summer. temporarily abandon their nests if disturbed.
Frequency of breeding: Annual. In the past, humans killed around 99% of this
Number of eggs: One to three eggs. species. Therefore, genetic diversity is low in
the current population. This could be a threat
Type of nests: Colonial nesters,
to their longer term survival.
with cup-shaped nest platforms made
of organic material and droppings.NZ Conservation Status: At Risk – Naturally Uncommon
Species Group: Black shag MPI group code: XHG
Shags
Phalacrocorax carbo novaehollandiae
Feeding and range
Eats: Fish, crustaceans and eels.
Range: Black shags are found on most inland
lakes, rivers, streams and larger ponds. They
also occur in estuaries, harbours and inshore
seas close to the coast.
Black shags are also found in Australia, Asia,
Europe and North America.
Image: © M. P. Pierre Image: © M. P. Pierre
Distinguishing characteristics
• Very large shag (80-85 cm in length) – largest species of shag
Interesting Facts !?
• Black head with white patch on cheeks when breeding
At one time black shags, or kawau pū, were
• Facial skin yellow in breeding season
thought to compete with fishermen for trout
• During the breeding season, facial skin becomes bright orange and other fish. Between 1890 and 1940,
and the species displays a small black crest on its neck acclimatisation societies put a price on shags
• Eyes green and many shag colonies were destroyed. Since
that time research has shown that shags have
• Black body with white patch on thigh in breeding plumage
very little impact on fish stocks. All shags are
• Black wings now protected.
• Black feetBreeding and ecology Threats
Breeding sites: In trees near the coast At sea On land
or inland wetlands, but the distribution Set netting, especially in estuaries, Occasionally birds are still found shot
of colonies is poorly known. Nests in flax harbours or small bays, presents during the duck shooting season.
(harakeke) around lakes on Chatham Island. a potential risk throughout the year.
The same subspecies also breeds in The species is very sensitive to
Australia and Tasmania and occasionally Shags occasionally swallow fish found disturbance by humans. Birds leave
visits New Guinea. on snagged lines. If the lines come nest sites when approached closely
free, some of these birds are later by people but return once people have
Breeding period: Spring/summer. found dead with the hook lodged in gone. Because shags incubate with
Frequency of breeding: Annual. the gut. Shags can also get tangled their feet placed under their eggs there
Number of eggs: Two to five eggs, but up at roost sites by lines, sinkers, is an increased risk that eggs and even
can replace clutches if eggs are lost. or other hooks. small chicks may be flicked from nests
when the parents are frightened.
Type of nests: Usually breed in colonies
in tall trees, but also nest on rocky ledges.NZ Conservation Status: At Risk – Naturally Uncommon
Species Group: Little black shag MPI group code: XHG
MPI species code: XBC
Shags
Phalacrocorax sulcirostris
Feeding and range
Eats: Small fish and freshwater crayfish – feeds
in both freshwater and marine environments.
Range: Disperse in autumn and winter to coastal
areas throughout the North Island and
occasionally to the northern half of the South
Island. Birds forage mainly over freshwater lakes,
ponds, rivers and shallow inshore coastal bays
and estuaries.
Elsewhere, the species breeds in Australia,
Image: Courtesy Phil Swanson Image: Courtesy Neil Fitzgerald
Indonesia and New Guinea and is a vagrant
to Lord Howe Island, Norfolk Island and
Distinguishing characteristics New Caledonia.
• Small shag (55-65 cm in length)
• Completely black plumage, glossy sheen on back
• Green eyes
• During breeding season some small white flecks may appear on head Interesting Facts !?
and neck feathers
Little black shags, or kawau tūī, often forage
• Long, grey, narrow bill separates this species from dark-type little shags and work together to herd fish into shallow water.
• Black legs and feetBreeding and ecology Threats
Breeding sites: Breeds in colonies in the At sea On land
North Island. Nesting colonies may be disturbed Nesting colonies may be disturbed
Breeding period: Spring/summer. by close approaches from boats. by low-flying aircraft.
Frequency of breeding: Annual. Set netting, especially in estuaries The species is susceptible to human
Number of eggs: Two to five eggs, and presents a potential risk to this species. disturbance and will abandon nests
can replace clutches if eggs are lost. Entanglement in unattended set nets is and chicks temporarily allowing gulls
of particular concern given this species opportunities to take eggs and chicks.
Type of nests: Build large nests in trees, or group foraging approach.
sometimes on the ground on islands in lakes.NZ Conservation Status: Not Threatened
Species Group: Little shag MPI group code: XHG
Shags
Phalacrocorax melanoleucos brevirostris
Feeding and range
Eats: Fish, crustaceans and frogs.
Range: This subspecies breeds only in
New Zealand. Colonies are dispersed
widely around the North Island, South Island
and Stewart Island.
Other subspecies breed in Australia,
Image: © M. P. Pierre Image: © M. P. Pierre New Guinea, Indonesia and islands in the
south-west Pacific from the Solomons to
Distinguishing characteristics New Caledonia.
• Small shag (55-65 cm in length) – smallest shag species
• Colouring of underparts variable
• Most adult birds mainly black with just a little white on throat
• Many birds white below and black above
• Some have mottled black and white underparts
Interesting Facts !?
• Stubby, yellow bill Smallest shag found in New Zealand.
• Black feet Occurs in both freshwater and marine
environments.
• This species best identified by its small size, long tail and short yellow bill
Juvenile features: Juveniles of the ‘white-throated’ morph are completely
dark, and all juveniles have dark bills.Breeding and ecology Threats
Breeding sites: Are found on coasts, but At sea On land
also inland near rivers, streams and lakes. Set netting, especially in estuaries and Little shags are susceptible to human
Breeding period: Spring/summer. inshore bays, presents a potential risk disturbance and will abandon nests
Frequency of breeding: Annual. throughout the year. and chicks temporarily allowing
red-billed gulls and black-backed gulls
Number of eggs: Two to five eggs, and can opportunities to take eggs and chicks.
replace clutches if eggs are lost.
Type of nests: Usually builds nests in large
trees and lives in large colonies.NZ Conservation Status: At Risk – Recovering
Species Group: Pied shag MPI group code: XHG
MPI species code: XPS
Shags
Phalacrocorax varius varius
Feeding and range
Eats: Fish and eels.
Range: This subspecies breeds only in
New Zealand. Mainly found in coastal
environments on the northern part of the North
Island and the southern part of the South Island.
Birds disperse locally over inshore waters feeding
Image: © M. P. Pierre Image: © M. P. Pierre mostly in bays, harbours, and estuaries but also
in the open sea. Stragglers have reached the
Distinguishing characteristics Snares Islands.
Elsewhere, a subspecies (Phalacrocorax varius
• Large shag (65-85 cm in length) hyploleucus) breeds in Australia.
• Dark green/black colouring on top of head, back and wings
• White belly, throat and lower half of head
• White extends higher up the neck and head than on Foveaux
and Otago shags, king shag or Chatham Island shag Interesting Facts !?
• Blue eye ring with yellow facial skin Shags do not have waterproof feathers. They are
• Mottled grey bill often seen sitting with their wings outstretched
to dry after fishing.
• Black feetBreeding and ecology Threats
Breeding sites: Breeds coastally around At sea On land
New Zealand’s mainland and numerous close Pied shags have been reported caught Pied shags are still persecuted by
inshore islands. Also breeds at the Three in set nets and by inshore longline humans. Members of this species
Kings Islands. There are a few colonies found fisheries. have occasionally been found dead
on freshwater lakes near the sea. on northern beaches with gunshot
Extreme weather conditions can
Breeding period: Year round, peaking impact the ability of shags to obtain wounds. Nesting trees have been
in winter and summer. sufficient food. For example, in 2008, felled when guano from colonies
Frequency of breeding: Annual. after a long period of wet, cold weather creates a health risk near dwellings.
Number of eggs: Usually three to four eggs, and rough seas, a number of pied Mustelids, rats and possums may have
but can replace clutches if eggs are lost. shags died of starvation at the Thames some impact on mainland colonies but
Coast pied shag colony at Tararu. no information is available.
Type of nests: Nests in colonies in tall trees
close to water. The species is sensitive to disturbance
by humans but nest sites are usually
in safe locations.NZ Conservation Status: Threatened – Nationally Critical
Species Group: Pitt Island shag MPI group code: XHG
MPI species code: XPF
Shags
Stictocarbo featherstoni
Feeding and range
Eats: Small fish and marine invertebrates such
as snails and polychaete worms.
Range: Breeds only at the Chatham Islands.
The species feeds at sea near the breeding
islands and has never been recorded away
from the Chatham Islands.
Usually feed deep offshore, but occasionally
Image: Courtesy Igor Debski Image: DOC. Photographer Dick Veitch feed close inshore or in rock pools. Usually
feed alone, but often roost in flocks of 10+ birds.
Distinguishing characteristics
• Slim, medium-sized shag (63 cm in length)
• Dark head with distinctive black crest in pre-breeding plumage
• Facial skin around eye turns bright green before the breeding season
• Long, mottled yellow bill
Interesting Facts !?
• Grey belly and darker grey back with a black spot on each feather The Pitt Island shag was never common and
was reported nearly extinct as early as 1905.
• Dark wings The population may now be stable.
• Yellow feet
• Similar looking to spotted shag but darker and no white stripe
on its neckBreeding and ecology Threats Breeding sites: Breeds only in the At sea On land Chatham Islands. Usually nests on cliffs Pitt Island shags have been reported Some mammalian predators (feral cats or offshore islands. bycaught in crayfish pots. and rats) take a few eggs, chicks Breeding period: Spring/summer. Set netting presents a potential risk and adult birds. Frequency of breeding: Annual. to this species although this method Weka possibly take eggs or chicks Number of eggs incubated: Usually three of fishing is uncommon at the at some colonies on Chatham Island eggs, and can replace clutches if eggs Chatham Islands. and Pitt Island. are lost. Type of nests: Nests on cliffs and offshore islands. Nests are made of twigs, seaweed and other vegetation and built on a platform. Breeds in smaller colonies than other Chatham Island shag species, with 5-20 pairs per colony.
NZ Conservation Status: Not Threatened
Species Group: Spotted shag MPI group code: XHG
MPI species code: XPP
Shags
Stictocarbo punctatus
Feeding and range
Eats: Mainly small fish.
Range: The spotted shag, or pārekareka, breeds
only in New Zealand. There are two subspecies
of spotted shag (S. p. punctatus) with breeding
colonies scattered around the North Island and
along the eastern coast of the South Island south
to Otago Peninsula; and the blue shag (S. p. steadi)
with breeding colonies scattered along the western
coast of the South Island, in Foveaux Strait and
around Stewart Island.
Image: © M. P. Pierre Image: © M. P. Pierre Spotted shags move extensively around coasts of
both main islands although most birds are found
Distinguishing characteristics near breeding colonies. The birds feed in open seas
usually within 2-16 km of the coast but they also
forage in bays, inlets and estuaries.
• Slim, medium-sized shag (64-74 cm in length)
• Dark grey head with prominent white stripe down side of neck
• Breeding plumage includes a double crest and bright green facial skin
• Lighter colouring on back than other shags Interesting Facts !?
• Body light grey, with black spots on upper parts Seabird scientists have constructed a ‘shaggery’
• Yellow-orange feet (light pink in juveniles) complete with fake birds and streaks of guano on
the Noises, an island group off the coast of
Auckland to try and entice more of these shags
back to the Hauraki Gulf.Breeding and ecology Threats Breeding sites: Colonies are found around At sea On land both the North and South Island, as well as Spotted shags have been reported Spotted shags are still persecuted by in Foveaux Strait and around Stewart Island. caught in trawl nets (for example, humans. Birds with gunshot wounds Colonies in the Hauraki Gulf have declined 30 birds were caught in one trawl in are occasionally found dead on considerably and are now only found on 2009). They have also been recorded beaches. Waiheke and Tarahiki Islands. caught in set nets. Mustelids and rats may have some Breeding period: Spring/summer. affect on mainland colonies, but no Frequency of breeding: Annual. information is available. Number of eggs: Up to four eggs, and The species is sensitive to disturbance can replace clutches if eggs are lost. by humans but nest sites are usually Type of nests: Most spotted shags nest in safe locations. in caves or on rocky ledges and cliffs.
NZ Conservation Status: Threatened – Nationally Vulnerable
Species Group: Fiordland crested penguin MPI group code: XPG
MPI species code: XFC
Penguins
Eudyptes pachyrhynchus
Feeding and range
Eats: Squid, crustaceans and fish.
Range: Outside of the breeding season,
Fiordland crested penguins, or tawaki, disperse
mainly around the South Island and south to
the subantarctic islands. This penguin is also
a regular vagrant to south-eastern Australia.
Image: DOC. Photographer Andrew Walmsley Image: DOC. Photographer Andrew Walmsley Except when breeding, Fiordland crested
penguins spend most of their time at sea.
Distinguishing characteristics
• Mid-sized penguin – 55 cm in length
• Black head and throat with pronounced yellow eyebrow stripe (crest)
and faint white cheek markings
• Thick, orange bill
• Typical ‘tuxedo-like’ appearance with a white belly and black back Interesting Facts !?
• Light pink feet, blackish-brown underfoot Listed as nationally vulnerable. There has been
Juvenile features: a large historical decline in this species since
European settlement. This decline is likely to
• Smaller in size be continuing at some nesting sites.
• Crest reduced to a pale ‘eyebrow’ Like all other penguin species, both parents are
• Darker bill involved in feeding and protecting their young.Breeding and ecology Threats
Breeding sites: Breeds on the South Island At sea On land
mainland and adjacent offshore islands
Set netting presents Weka had a marked impact on penguin
southwards from Bruce Bay. Also nests
a potential risk to this populations on Whenua Hou (Codfish Island)
on Solander Island, Whenua Hou (Codfish
species. Penguins and still have an impact on penguins nesting
Island), and islands off Stewart Island.
returning to breeding on Solander Island and the Open Bay Islands.
Breeding period: Begins in July, incubation colonies or landing beaches Mustelids, especially stoats, are reported to
is completed in 30-35 days and chicks fledge at dusk are vulnerable take eggs and chicks on mainland colonies
in 10-11 weeks. to near-shore set nets. and may occasionally attack adult penguins.
Frequency of breeding: Annual.
Domestic dogs may kill adult penguins
Number of eggs: Often lays two eggs, (especially moulting birds) and disturb colonies
but the parents are rarely able to feed two near human habitation.
chicks, and the smaller one usually dies
Norway, ship and Pacific rats may also be
within a week of hatching.
predators of small chicks although there is
Type of nests: Nests on the ground amongst no direct evidence of predation. Feral cats
rocks and vegetation. Less social than other and pigs are potential predators but appear
crested penguin species. Fiordland crested to be uncommon in areas where penguins
penguins tend to nest in small groups within currently nest.
loose colonies.
There is concern that increased nature tourism
in South Westland may disturb breeding birds at
some accessible colonies, causing nests to fail.
The species is also sensitive to handling and
requires care when carrying out research.NZ Conservation Status: At Risk – Declining
Species Group: Little blue penguin MPI group code: XPG
MPI species code: XLB
Penguins
Eudyptula minor
Feeding and range
Eats: Mainly eats small shoaling fish such as
pilchards and anchovies.
Range: Several subspecies of little blue penguin,
or kororā, are found around the mainland
coastline of New Zealand and the Chatham
Islands. The species mainly forages near the
coast but some birds disperse at sea over the
continental shelf and slopes.
Little blue penguins are also found in Australia
Image: DOC. Photographer Paddy Ryan Image: © M.P. Pierre
where they are known as fairy penguins.
Distinguishing characteristics
• Smallest penguin species in the world – 40-45 cm in length
• Dark blue head
• White belly and dark blue back
Interesting Facts !?
• Dark blue upper surface to flippers Research using DNA suggests that little blue
penguins living around Otago are more closely
• Light pink on the tops of their feet with black on the bottom related to Australian birds than to birds in other
• Dark bill parts of New Zealand.
Juvenile features: Brighter blue back and much smaller than adults. The Australian and Otago populations of these
penguins may have split less than 750 years ago.Breeding and ecology Threats
Breeding sites: Breeds around the At sea On land
New Zealand coastline, many offshore Blue penguins have been bycaught in Mustelids are a major land-based
islands and the Chatham Islands. They visit near-shore set nets. Penguins returning threat to little blue penguins. Ferrets
their breeding colonies year-round. to breeding colonies or landing beaches (and probably stoats) take eggs and
Breeding period: Begins in July, incubation at dusk are vulnerable to near-shore chicks and sometimes attack adult
is completed in 33-40 days and chicks fledge set nets. blue penguins.
in 48-63 days. Occasionally there are large ‘wrecks’ of Unrestrained dogs have wiped out
Frequency of breeding: Annual. penguins reported on northern many blue penguin colonies on the
Number of eggs: One to two, and often beaches. These wrecks appear to be mainland because they readily attack
rear two chicks. associated with sustained periods of and kill adult penguins and chicks.
stormy weather. Little blue penguin Consequently, blue penguin colonies
Type of nests: Nests in isolated burrows deaths, however, could also be are lost from areas where people with
or caves, sometimes in large colonies. associated with temperature related dogs have easy access to the coast.
Also occasionally under or around coastal changes which cause spawning failure
buildings. Feral cats may kill adult penguins
or die-offs of prey species, biotoxins and chicks.
caused by algal blooms or increases in
land-based viruses such as avian pox Norway rats could potentially take eggs
or cholera. and small chicks at some colonies.
Rabbits and possums may compete for
burrows on mainland colonies. Feral
pigs may root out burrows and kill
nesting penguins at mainland colonies.
Blue penguins have been killed or
injured by vehicles when crossing
coastal roads to reach nesting sites.NZ Conservation Status: Threatened – Nationally Endangered
Species Group: Yellow-eyed penguin MPI group code: XPG
MPI species code: XYP
Penguins
Megadyptes antipodes
Feeding and range
Eats: Mainly fish and squid.
Range: Breeds only in New Zealand. This
species is mainly found around the eastern
South Island, Stewart Island and the subantarctic
Auckland and Campbell islands. Birds forage
over the continental shelf.
Image: © M.P. Pierre Image: © M.P. Pierre
Distinguishing characteristics
• Large, reaching 56-78 cm in length
• Dark head with yellow eyes
• Yellow eye band that outlines the eyes and wraps around the head
• Top of head is sometimes flecked with yellow colouring Interesting Facts !?
• Narrow, red-orange bill One of the world’s rarest penguin species.
• Charcoal-grey back with a white belly The Māori name for yellow-eyed penguins
• Flippers charcoal-grey on top with white edging and white underneath is hoiho, which means ‘noise shouter’.
• Light-pink feet
Juvenile features: Grey eyes and reduced yellow on headBreeding and ecology Threats
Breeding sites: Breeds in eastern and At sea On land
southern South Island from Banks Peninsula
Yellow-eyed penguins have Predation by feral cats, ferrets and stoats is
to Bluff. Also breeds on Stewart Island and
been recorded bycaught in the major cause of chick mortality at mainland
islands in Foveaux Strait, Whenua Hou,
set nets. Penguins returning colonies and ferrets occasionally kill adult
Auckland Islands and Campbell Island.
to breeding colonies or penguins at some mainland sites.
Breeding period: Begins in September, landing beaches at dusk Uncontrolled dogs have killed adults and
incubation is completed in 39-47 days are vulnerable to near-shore chicks and are a serious threat at some
and chicks fledge in 14-16 weeks. set nets. mainland colonies.
Frequency of breeding: Annual. Bottom trawling may alter Grazing of coastal margins by domestic cattle
Number of eggs: Often lay two eggs, but benthic foraging habitat. and sheep has removed much of the available
sometimes the parents are unable to rear penguin nesting habitat. Cattle also trample
both chicks. nests on the mainland. Fencing of habitats to
Type of nests: Often nest in coastal forests exclude stock has been beneficial in removing
or amongst vegetation near the shore. the problem of trampling of nests but the
subsequent growth of rank grass has increased
predator densities around nest sites.
Fires are a potential hazard. A fire in coastal
scrub at Te Rere Reserve in Southland in 1995
killed over 60 adult penguins. The birds are at
greatest risk during the moult (January to April)
because they are unable to escape to sea.
Recently there have been records of various
diseases impacting hoiho colonies (e.g. avian
malaria).NZ Conservation Status: At Risk – Relict*
Species Group:
Mid-sized petrels
Fluttering shearwater MPI group code: XPM
MPI species code: XFL
and shearwaters Puffinus gavia
Feeding and range
Eats: Small fish and crustaceans, especially krill.
Range: Breeds only in New Zealand. Forages over
the continental shelf and inshore waters including
sheltered bays and harbours, throughout most of
New Zealand.
Fledglings and some adults migrate to eastern
and southern Australia in February. Large numbers
of birds remain around the New Zealand coast
Image: Edin Whitehead Image: Edin Whitehead
year round.
Distinguishing characteristics
• Small shearwater (32-37 cm in length)
• Dark brown head Interesting Facts !?
• Greyish-brown bill and feet A new colony of fluttering shearwaters, or pakaha,
has been established on Maud Island, Marlborough
• White belly and throat, with partial dark collar
Sounds. Chicks translocated from Long Island to
• Brown upperwings Maud Island in the 1990s have now returned to
Maud as adults to breed.
• White underwings with brown borders
• Can be confused with the Hutton’s shearwater, particularly around the
Cook Strait, where the species overlap during breeding. Best separated *T
he classification category ‘Relict’ has been adopted in the
by paler armpits and less prominent partial collar New Zealand Threat Classification System to encompass
species that have experienced very large historic range
reductions and now exist as remnant populations.Breeding and ecology Threats
Breeding sites: Breeds on numerous At sea On land
offshore islands between the Three Kings Frequently feeds close inshore and All breeding colonies are on mammal-
group and the Marlborough Sounds. dive deeply for food. Consequently, free islands or islands that only have
Colonies can be extremely dense and coexist birds have been bycaught by fishers Pacific rats present. The breeding
with other species (e.g. common diving using hand and reel-lines in inshore populations are quite small on islands
petrels and grey-faced petrels). waters. The birds sometimes swallow with Pacific rats. It is likely that these
Breeding period: Between September and hooks rats these rats eat eggs and chicks of
February with the eggs hatching in November or get tangled in the lines. fluttering shearwaters.
and chicks fledging in January/February. Flocks of shearwaters are occasionally Fires may cause temporary losses
Frequency of breeding: Annual. caught in set nets. in the populations, especially during
Number of eggs: One. The species may be attracted to bright incubation (September-November).
Type of nests: Colonial nester that nests lighting, especially on foggy nights. Nesting colonies on small rodent-free
in burrows or between tree roots and rock This can lead to crash landings on islands are usually in very friable soil.
crevices. fishing vessels. The burrows on these islands are easily
Most of the large breeding colonies are collapsed by people moving about the
situated near active shipping lanes and colonies. Visitor access to these sites
the main New Zealand oil refinery at needs to be strictly limited, especially
Marsden Point. An oil spill near the during the courtship and incubation
breeding islands could have a major periods (August to November).
impact on this diving species.NZ Conservation Status: Threatened – Nationally Vulnerable
Species Group:
Mid-sized petrels
Hutton’s shearwater MPI group code: XPM
MPI species code: XPH
and shearwaters Puffinus huttoni
Feeding and range
Eats: Small fish and crustaceans, especially krill.
Range: Breeds only in New Zealand. This species
forages over the continental shelf mainly east
of the South Island and north of the subtropical
convergence. Mostly seen close to Kaikōura.
Most birds migrate to Australian seas between
April and August. Some birds reach the Indian
Ocean north-west of Western Australia and some
stay in the Tasman Sea and off South Australia.
Image: Courtesy Dennis Buurman Photography Image: DOC
Distinguishing characteristics
• Small shearwater (36-38 cm in length)
• Brown head with darker plumage around eye and bill Interesting Facts !?
• Long, slender, greyish-brown bill The 2016 Kaikōura earthquake caused extensive
• Light to dark pink legs with pink feet and black webs damage to the breeding colonies of Hutton’s
shearwater. Slips swept away 20-30% of each
• White belly and throat, with partial dark collar colony.
• Dark brown back and upperwings Hutton’s shearwater, or tītī , carries the same Māori
• Very similar to fluttering shearwater – darker ‘armpits’ and more prominent name as a number of different shearwater species,
partial collar help distinguish hutton’s shearwater particularly during the downy chick stage.Breeding and ecology Threats
Breeding sites: The only known breeding At sea On land
sites are located in the South Island on the
Recorded All Hutton’s shearwater colonies are on the mainland and
Seaward Kaikōura range, 1000 to 1600 metres
bycaught in therefore are potentially vulnerable to mammalian predators
above sea level. A small translocated colony
set nets. and browsers. Stoats are known to kill adults and chicks
has been formed closer to sea level within a
This species may and also take eggs.
predator proof area. Only seabird globally
known to breed in an alpine environment. be attracted to Feral cats and pigs are normally absent from the upper
bright lighting, valleys where the colonies occur but are present in the river
Breeding period: Returns to breeding
especially on catchment below the shearwater colonies. These two species
colonies in late August and spends about
foggy nights. are potentially the greatest threat to the shearwater colonies.
two months competing for burrows and
This can lead to New Zealand falcons and Australasian harriers capture and
mates. Eggs are laid in October or November.
crash landings. kill small numbers of adults and kea have been observed
Incubation takes about 50 days. Young
birds fledge in March or April. digging out Hutton’s shearwater chicks from short or shallow
burrows, then eating the fat deposits on these chicks.
Frequency of breeding: Annual.
Fire is a possible threat because the colonies can be very
Number of eggs: One.
dry in late summer.
Type of nests: Colonial nesters that
Burrows are extremely fragile and easily crushed by people.
nest in burrows.
Care is needed when studying this species because adults
are sensitive to handling during incubation.
In some seasons burrows are covered in snow till very late
and this delays or prevents breeding. Late summer snowfalls
may trap chicks or prevent adults from feeding them.
Bright lighting from buildings can lead to crash landings,
resulting in internal injury and death.You can also read
