Cruising the waterways.....

Scientific name: Anas rhynchotis variegata
Common name: New Zealand Shoveler
Maori name: Kuruwhengi

Mum and I found this New Zealand Shoveler while taking a stroll. Supposed to be widespread on lowland lakes and wetlands but I have only seen two in my life and within two years.

A medium sized, colourful duck with a large, grey, strikingly spatulate bill. The male has a chesnut flank with a white spot aft. Back is variegated, head and neck slate grey with a white crescent in front of the eye which is bright golden yellow. The breast is varigated grey-brown. The female is generally mottled mid-brown all over. They breed in thick grass or rough pasture, the female incubates while the male stands guard.

They are still hunted in New Zealand during duck shooting season but I'm so grateful they are fast flyers and intelligent birds as they head out to sea at the first sound of a shot gun. Native to New Zealand and quiet birds who mainly stick to themselves.

The image is a bit busy with the reflections from the grasses, however you go with what you can, it may well be another two years before I see another one.

Glad you all enjoyed yesterday mornings sunrise, the beach was like another world, totally deserted with a huge amount of space. Many thanks for the lovely words, fav and stars - I'm thrilled it made spotlight :)

Best fly and put the groceries away, Happy Thursday blippers!