My island adventure began with an evening tour with Ange
from Beaks and Feathers to seek out the Stewart Island Brown Kiwi. Torches are
provided if you don’t have a red setting or covering for your existing torch. The
Kiwi is present all over the island and views are possible on the rugby field
but you will join numerous other people searching for the same gratification. The
views I had here were brief!
The tour takes a small group three on this occasion to a
restricted area on the island where Kiwi openly feed at night. Five individuals
were seen during the tour and down to a few metres where the birds were not
disturbed during their feeding activities. Pictures were taken without flash
relying only on red light from a torch.
An excellent few hours spent with Ange who is very knowledgeable, passionate about Kiwi and protecting their future!
I have enjoyed your trip blog, thank you. Mention of Stewart Island brings back happy memories but is not predator-free although the numbers seem to be low compared to the mainland. Ulva Island is of course predator free. Did you hear how the Kakapo are doing?
ReplyDeleteThanks John, The Kakapo have just had their longest breeding season with 75 chicks so far. I have included the link for more info on the subject: https://www.radionz.co.nz/programmes/kakapo-files/story/2018691210/longest-kakapo-breeding-season
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