Taranui, Caspian tern
dive from 15m high above the water’s surface
Where you can find them:
In a small colony on Ōnoke Spit. This is the only breeding site in the lower North Island. These distinctive looking birds are commonly seen feeding over Lake Ōnoke, Lake Wairarapa and lagoons near Lake Domain.
What they look like:
Similar to seagulls, with black caps on their heads and bright red beaks.
Did you know:
They are the largest tern species in the world, and are nationally vulnerable with only 1300-1400 breeding pairs left.