Showing posts with label Paradise Shelduck (Tadorna variegata). Show all posts
Showing posts with label Paradise Shelduck (Tadorna variegata). Show all posts

Paradise Shelduck (Tadorna variegata) Information

Paradise Shelduck

The Paradise Shelduck (Tadorna variegata) is a large goose-like duck endemic to New Zealand. Known to the Māori as Pūtangitangi, but now commonly referred to as the "Paradise duck", it is a prized game bird. Both the male and female have striking plumage: the male has a black head and barred black body, the female a white head with a chestnut body.

The Paradise Shelducks usually live as pairs, grazing on grass and weeds, and will raid crops, particularly when molting.

Paradise Shelduck
image source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/digitaltrails/

Paradise Shelduck
image source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/angrysunbird/