Information for Junior Secondary

Pukeko

• The Pukeko is a native to NZ, is also called a swamp hen.
• It is found throughout NZ
• Its distinctive colours of black and blue with bright red on its head and beak
• They are bold, scheming and very determined.
• They steal eggs from nests and known to raid local gardens for kumara and potato, while basically feeding around wetland areas, eating fresh stems, shoots and seeds of grasses.
• The female lays her eggs in a nest well hidden amongst the Raupo (bulrushes).
• She lays 4-6 eggs per brood, with the male assisting with the incubation which lasts up to 30 days, normally in October.
• Adults protect their chicks furiously and can be observed attacking cats and stoats that come near.