SOUTH POLAR SKUA - Tiritiri Matangi 2 Dec

[Brent Stephenson]

Hi all,

(As reported on BIRDING-NZ) on the way to Tiritiri Matagi Island 2 Dec we had a SOUTH POLAR SKUA from the ferry. The bird was resting on the water as we went past and it was located in the middle of the open channel between Whangaparoa Peninsula and Tiri. After the briefing we looked for it and sharp-eyes Christine spotted it flying towards Kawau Island and we had reasonable views of it until it flew out of sight in that direction. Really nice pale nape and smal headed appearance.

Also in the morning a reef egret on the breakwater as we left the Gulf Harbour marina and nice views of buff-banded rail at Wenderholm.

Lot's of spring in the air out on Tiritiri - as well as rain! First for the island in some time apparently. Despite that managed excellent sightings of little spotted kiwi, and nice views of kokako and all the other birds out there. A really good time to visit so if you can get out there it is well worth it at the moment...not that it isn't at any time of the year.

Cheers,