California Quail (Waikumete Cemetery)
Well, no, of course it’s not a chicken, but a California quail (Callipepla californica; this one is a male with its brighter coloration and bigger feather bush). And there are large flocks (called “coveys”) of them (30 or more birds at a time) on Waikumete Cemetery, which is not only a resting place for the departed, but a great place to go walking, watch the abundant birdlife, or study the varied vegetation.
California quail were introduced to New Zealand about 150 years ago and are quite common.
August 6, 2010 at 8:10 am
Great capture ! wonderful bird ! and look funny in someway : )