Blue Duck
The fast flowing clear river at Tirangi.
Habitat for this species.
Notice the bizarre fleshy flaps of skin
hanging from the tip of the bill.
The Blue Duck is a fast declining New Zealand endemic, confined to clear, unpolluted fast flowing rivers & streams. It is threatened by hydro-electricity schemes which dam its habitat; pollution of its crystal clear waters; predation by introduced predators & competition for its food by introduced trout & associated pressure from fishing.
It is found on both North & South Islands, but is much more restricted in distribution on North Island. An initiative was started in 2011 to boost the numbers of Blue Duck & to try & control pest species which prey on this vulnerable species.
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