One of the most recognisable and favourite native birds seen around our Avon-Heathcote Estuary/Ihutai. Its large size, stunning white plumage, and graceful slow flight make it a real show stopper to observe.
The white heron is classified as being “Nationally Critical” with only between 150 – 200 birds left in NZ.
The only breeding colony in NZ is situated in Okarito Lagoon along the West Coast and nobody is quite sure why we have two single birds residing in Christchurch that are seen regularly spending time between the estuary, Linwood Canal, Travis Swamp and the Lower Heathcote river.
They feed on frogs, small fish, young eels and mice.