Good news for birds this summer

Some good news … in the last few months the Pied Stilts have raised 3 chicks to adults, and Oystercatchers raised a group of 3 chicks and a group of two. Then today I spotted two more brand new Oystercatcher chicks! This must be the most successful season we’ve ever had!

And although they may or may not be breeding here, there are a lot of Dotterels around, and a White-Faced Heron and Royal Spoonbill have been visiting the Estuary too.

NZ Dotterel shows off its jewellery.
NZ Dotterel shows off its jewellery.
Pied Stilt stands guard on 3 juveniles.
Pied Stilt stands guard on 3 juveniles.
White-faced heron.
White-faced heron.
Oystercatcher with two chicks.
Oystercatcher with two chicks.
Oystercatcher chicks seek refuge under their parent. Can you see their bottoms peeking out?
Oystercatcher chicks seek refuge under their parent. Can you see their bottoms peeking out?
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