Pukeko, the New Zealand Swamp Hen, are related to the Takahe but arrived more recently in New Zealand from Australia, providing an interesting illustration of the effect of the environment on bird behaviour and physique. Before Aussies preen their feathers and make snide remarks about dull kiwis, note that “The Pukeko is a bold and fearless bird. It has learned that trains and motorcars are harmless and takes no notice of them.” - reference:
http://www.nzbirds.com/birds/pukeko.html. In other words, engaging but a bit stupid - squished Pukeko are a common sight. But it does help when photographing them. I spent some time stalking them on foot, but got my best shots when I stopped the car by the side of the road and shot out the window - they barely noticed me from a couple of metres away.
Shot at Travis Swamp (Wetlands), an unconfined wilderness reserve in suburban Christchurch. Canon 7D 70-200mm F4 lens. Vignette added in Lightroom.
For more photos from the same shoot, see
http://www.flickr.com/photos/pwillyams/sets/72157626557052726/show/
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