The pukeko is deep blue with a black head and upperparts.  The white undertail is flicked with every step.  The bill and shield are scarlet, the eye red and the legs and feet are orange – red.  The call is a loud unmusical screech and also a subdued musical ‘tuk – tuk’.

Pukeko mainly feed on swamp and pasture vegetation.  Also insects, spiders, frogs, small birds and eggs.  Shoots are held in the foot like a parrot and stripped or macerated by the powerful bill. 

Breeding is mainly between August and March.  Nests are built on a tussock or rush clump, with the grass or rushes being beaten down into a platform.  Territories are often occupied by groups and two or more females may lay in the same nest.  The incubation of 23 – 27 days is shared by all.  Each female lays 4 – 6 buff eggs with brown blotches at the larger end.  All birds, including non – breeding helpers ( offspring from previous broods) help in feeding and caring for the chicks. 

Photography by:  Peter Craw © (Pukeko on Tiri at the water troughs by the Visitors Centre - left) and by Dr Kerry Rodgers © (right)

References: Heather, B.D.; Robertson, H.A. 2000 The Field Guide to the Birds of New Zealand. Auckland, Viking.