Blue Duck - Hymernolaimus malacorhynchos (Whio)

Coordinator: Peter Russell

Habitat and Distribution:An endemic threatened species, the Blue Duck inhabits turbulent hight-country rivers of North Island. Recent introductions have been made to some rivers of Mt Taranaki

Characteristics: The only duck species likely to be seen on turbulent hight-country rivers. Soft fleshy borders to bill. Usually very well camoflaged when perched on river rocks. Strong, direct flight.

Voice: Male gives repeated high-pitched whistle. Female utters low rasping note when distrubed..

Food: Insects and grubs taken from surface or around rocks. Caddis-fly larvae a favourite food.

Breeding: Nests from August to December. Nest contructed of sticks and grasses hidden under rocks, in caves, under logs or in thick riverside vegetation. Clutch of 4 -8 cream coloured eggs is incubated for 32 days only by the female. Chicks can fly when 10 weeks old.

Captive Program: 16 holders, 22 pairs, breeding upto 18 birds per year for release into the wild under the Blue Duck Recovery Group.

Associated Documents:

Blue Duck Recovery Plan

Blue Duck Captive Mangement Plan

Blue Duck Husbandry Manual