Kotuku in Flight

I decided to visit the estuary today at a time that would be least likely to have walkers and cyclists  scaring off the bird life. I was hoping to see a Kingfisher.

Arriving there after a quick lunch, I was rewarded by immediately spotting a kotuku - or white heron.  These great egrets are rare in New Zealand with an estimated less than 200 birds in total. They nest only at Okarito on the South Island's West coast.

We are lucky that most years one or two can be seen in the estuary feeding. The beak of this one is starting to turn black at the tip which indicates it will most likely be heading for Okarito next Spring. A breeding bird has a beak that has changed from the youthful orange to black.It will also sport lacy feathers like a bridal veil and be green around the eyes - which can already be seen in today's bird.

No Kingfisher today - but the kotoku is equally special.
An extra as it circled.