Cheeky Pukeko

Never a dull moment when a Pukeko is around, full of character!

Widespread especially in open pastures by ponds and streams. Breeds in rushes or reeds in or close to the water, year round. Often 'group breeds' with two or more females and at least two males.

They feed on vegetable matter, foraging in the open and pulling at shoots, stripping seeds and using their bills to unearth rhizomes and corms. Long shoots are often held in one foot, while they use their bills to tear them apart. Also feeding on aquatic plants, insects and frogs and occasionally robbing eggs and chicks from nests - yes, they're cheeky alright!

Scientific name: Porphyrio porphyria melanotus
Common name: Purple Swamphen
Maori name: Pukeko