South Island Saddleback
South Island Saddleback
100
1 month ago
Points:
100
The South Island Saddleback, or Tīeke, is a medium-sized, endemic New Zealand wattlebird, similar to its North Island counterpart but genetically distinct. It has glossy black plumage with a chestnut 'saddle' and orange wattles.
Where to spot
Endemic to the South Island and Stewart Island of New Zealand, currently restricted to offshore predator-free islands where it has been successfully reintroduced, inhabiting native forests.
How to spot
Its chestnut 'saddle' and orange wattles are unmistakable. Listen for its loud, energetic, and often chattering calls as it moves through native forest. Often quite bold in predator-free environments.
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.
Where to spot
Endemic to the South Island and Stewart Island of New Zealand, currently restricted to offshore predator-free islands where it has been successfully reintroduced, inhabiting native forests.
How to spot
Its chestnut 'saddle' and orange wattles are unmistakable. Listen for its loud, energetic, and often chattering calls as it moves through native forest. Often quite bold in predator-free environments.
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.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Like its North Island relative, the South Island Saddleback is an important indicator of predator-free habitats due to its vulnerability to introduced mammals.
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Spotted
- Recently spotted
- 3 (Seen in the last 3 months)
- Last spotted
- 1 month ago
Monthly observations
1 observation
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