New Zealand - Ulva Island - A birds Paradise!

I joined Matt from Ulva’s Guided Walks for a morning spent on Ulva Island and an afternoon with Chris on a pelagic trip visiting open water and the surrounding coasts. 

The first bird to greet up off the boat was Weka which was wandering along this and was seen on other beaches that were visited during the tour. Kaka was also present and was seen further into the forest. Tui and Silvereye were regular whilst traversing the island.

Saddleback was more difficult to locate but two juveniles showed well after some creeping around along the path. This plumage is sought by birdwatchers as they are overall plain brown distinguishing them from juveniles in the North Island race. The adults are similar in appearance.

Brown Creeper was easier to locate feeding at mid level to the canopy in small groups. Yellowhead were heard during the morning but had not homed into view. However with ten minutes left of the tour a bird was seen by Matt picking up food from the floor and feeding young that were nearby. Matt had earlier offered to take me out the following morning if this species had eluded the tour.

One species that was extremely obliging was the Robin which came to very close quarters to invite Matt to assist it with its feeding routine!

A female Rifleman completed the total of protected species that share the forest on the island.

Matt who’s knowledge of the islands history and fauna is worth the trip alone. His bird finding skills were at another level! Many Thanks!