The Strathnaver Bittern

Bittern crossing the road.

Matuku-hūrepo | Australasian bittern are severely threatened, facing an immediate high risk of extinction, and yet today [30 January 2023] one was strolling around in the vicinity of 171 Strathnaver Drive, a breeding area. These birds stay hidden so it was a real treat to actually see it. 🐦

Update, 07 February 2023, I've recently been informed that an expert on Bitterns visited this area and said the foliage in this spot isn't right for it to be a breeding area. Clearly though, it *is* a foraging area.

Large brown stripy bird by long grass.

Waikawa News @WaikawaNews