It is six years since I posted about the Pukeko or Purple Swamp Hen: one of New Zealand's indigenous birds. There's a lot around here and quite a few in the orchard in front of The Cottage. A few days ago I saw one feeding its young. It was some distance away and in the long grass of the paddock. When standing erect they are about half a metre tall. I did post about one in an apple tree here.
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I'm still trying to work out the half metre thing. Is it fierce?
ReplyDeleteOver 18" tall Frances. I don't think they are particularly fierce as a general rule although I have seen them go for each other occasionally. They can be very loving parents though and will even feed other birds' chicks as a family.
DeleteMagnificent bird - and how cute that you managed to take photos of it feeding the little chick :)
ReplyDeleteThe chicks grow up so rapidly Monica that the chances one gets are few and far between.
DeleteWonderful shots! That lens of yours is truly amazing. I'm glad you use it as a force for good.
ReplyDeleteThanks Katherine. My sense of evil is, fortunately, very undeveloped.
DeleteVery good pictures! The deep blue plumage on the adult bird is so beautiful.
ReplyDeleteThanks Meike. When the sun is fully on them the plumage is astonishing.
DeleteGreat captures. Love that second one, grabbed out of the wild life.
ReplyDeleteMersad
Mersad Donko Photography
That's an impressive bird with it's size and color.
ReplyDeleteWhat a fascinating looking bird....your photos did it justice.
ReplyDelete