Birds
File:North Island saddleback (Philesturnus rufusater) Tiritiri Matangi.jpg

North Island Saddleback

North Island Saddleback

100
1 month ago
Spotted
The North Island Saddleback, or Tīeke, is a medium-sized, striking wattlebird endemic to New Zealand. It is characterized by its glossy black plumage with a prominent chestnut 'saddle' across its back and bright orange wattles.
Where to spot
Endemic to the North Island of New Zealand, currently restricted to offshore predator-free islands and mainland sanctuaries where intensive predator control occurs, inhabiting native forests.
How to spot
Look for its distinctive chestnut 'saddle' and bright orange wattles against glossy black. Listen for its loud, energetic 'chee-chee-chee-chup' calls. They often move quickly and noisily through dense forest.
When to spot
Resident year-round. Active throughout the day, often heard and seen foraging in the undergrowth or mid-story. Most vocal in the mornings.
File:North Island saddleback (Philesturnus rufusater) Tiritiri Matangi.jpg
File:North Island saddleback (Philesturnus rufusater) head Tiritiri Matangi.jpg
File:Philesturnus rufusater (AM LB10837-4).jpg
File:Philesturnus rufusater (AM LB10837-5).jpg
File:Philesturnus rufusater (AM LB13324-1).jpg
File:Philesturnus rufusater (AM LB14699-1).jpg
File:Philesturnus rufusater - Adam Mark Lenny 01.jpg
File:North Island saddleback (Philesturnus rufusater) Tiritiri Matangi.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:North Island saddleback (Philesturnus rufusater) head Tiritiri Matangi.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Philesturnus rufusater (AM LB10837-4).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Philesturnus rufusater (AM LB10837-5).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Philesturnus rufusater (AM LB13324-1).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Philesturnus rufusater (AM LB14699-1).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Philesturnus rufusater - Adam Mark Lenny 01.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Saddlebacks are known for their boisterous, chattering calls and for often moving noisily through the undergrowth, crashing through foliage as they forage.
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Spotted

Recently spotted
15 (Seen in the last 3 months)
Last spotted
1 month ago

Monthly observations

2 observations
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Stephan
Stephan
7 months ago
North Island Saddleback
Spotted North Island Saddleback
Spotted North Island Saddleback
+100
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Stephan
Stephan
7 months ago
North Island Saddleback
Spotted North Island Saddleback
Spotted North Island Saddleback
+115
Lifer
No likes yet
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