Beauty in Blue: Sacred Kingfisher/Kōtare in New Zealand

Kingfisher|kōtare is the favourite bird of many people, so what is it about them? It is a combination of their beauty, their personality, their hunting skills, and their flight abilities. There are about 129 species of kingfishers in the world, but in New Zealand we have just one native kingfisher, apart from a scattering of kookaburra north of Auckland. The sacred kingfisher is widespread in New Zealand and familiar to most people. I have photographed them for many years, and more recently, spent time with them on the Whanganui River Estuary, where they come in winter to feed on the abundant crabs that are there in this season. Their movements are quick, making photography a challenge, however, with modern cameras I have amassed a portfolio of thousands of pictures, and spent so much time with these birds, that I felt I must share their fascinating story. It will be of interest to all nature lovers, whether old or young, as it transports you into their secret world of survival.