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==Distribution== | ==Distribution== | ||
| − | This 54 cm long species is an endemic resident breeder in New Zealand | + | This 54 cm long species is an endemic resident breeder in New Zealand |
==Taxonomy== | ==Taxonomy== | ||
Revision as of 20:54, 4 July 2007
- Hymenolaimus malacorhynchos
Identification
The blue duck is a dark slate-grey with a chestnut-flecked breast and a paler bill and eye. The pinkish-white bill has fleshy flaps of skin hanging from the sides of its tip.
Distribution
This 54 cm long species is an endemic resident breeder in New Zealand
Taxonomy
The Blue Duck (Hymenolaimus malacorhynchus) is a member of the duck, goose and swan family Anatidae. It is the only member of the genus Hymenolaimus, placed in the shelduck subfamily Tadorninae[citation needed] after previously being considered part of the paraphyletic "perching duck" assemblage. The Māori name is whio, which is an onomatopoetic rendition of the males' call.
Voice
The male's call is an aspirated whistle, and the female's is a rattling growl.
Habitat
Nests in hollow logs, small caves and other sheltered spots. It is a rare duck, holding territories on fast flowing mountain rivers.
Behaviour
It is a powerful swimmer even in white water, but is reluctant to fly. It is difficult to find, but not particularly wary when located
