NZ's 'torrent duck' the Whio (Blue Duck) (film)

[David Rees <>]

I'm voting this as my best filming experience of 2017, to date that is!

Recently spend some time visiting potentially suitable locations for this unique bird in the fast flowing rivers that run off the three big active volcanos that brood over the centre of NZ's North island. This bird is uncommon and the habitat difficult to search in due to access issues and sight-lines.  Little did I know how good my last stab at a potential site was going to be - and you can share it here.

First we found a pair of birds late one evening, good in itself, then we saw they had chicks.  Pulling back from the stream edge and staying dead still we watched as the birds approached us to within a couple of metres, going about their business.  Light was not good but camera coped. Watch as the five fluffy little chicks gamely deal with the rapids, signature call of the male also recorded.

It does not get better.......  https://vimeo.com/245127630

Enjoy

David