Cuteness in spadefuls

The pukeko is found nationwide and is an easily recognisable bird that has benefited greatly by the clearing of land for agriculture. In addition to its brilliant red beak and violet breast plumage, the pukeko is interesting for having a very complex social life.

Pukeko live in social groups and defend a shared territory that is used for both feeding and breeding. Social groups can have several breeding males and females, but all eggs are laid in a single nest with offspring often raised by group members.

Pukeko are widespread all over the Ka¯piti Coast, but are found particularly around waterways and small lakes. While they are mainly vegetarian, pukeko are opportunistic when it comes to prey, taking frogs, skinks, insects and young birds. They love vegetable gardens and considered a pest by farmers. They are what I call a ‘marmite’ bird. You either love ‘em or hate em.

This group of pukeko made their nest in a patch of agapanthus on the edge of the Waimanu Lagoon, Waikanae Beach. Their eggs hatched a few days ago, and the inquisitive youngsters have already been out of their nest exploring the surrounding area, and pestering their extended family for food. They may be ugly chicks, but, they have cuteness in spadefuls.