Paradise Shelduck Tadorna variegata

The Paradise Shelduck is native to New Zealand. It is one of the very few native birds/animals whose population has increased rather than declined after colonisation by humans, - deforestation creating habitat.

The male, above, has a black head and body, the body with intricate grey and brown markings and some brown plumage at the rear.

The female, above, has a white head and brown body, the body also with intricate black and grey lace markings.

They both have the green iridescent and white wing speculum typical of many shelduck. They pair for life and defend their territory.