22 Nov 2014

Two Taiko Sighted

There was huge excitement on the deck before breakfast this morning when a Taiko (Pterodroma Magenta) Petrel (one of the rarest birds in the world which breeds in very low numbers and only on the Chatham Islands) was sighted. When we have seen these birds at sea before, they have not come back for a second look at us, but this one arced away then swung back under the stern of the vessel, just metres from a group of entranced photographers. Some managed to capture some stunning photos of the bird, arguably some of the best ever.

The birding remained good throughout the day as we approached the Chatham Islands. An early dinner was scheduled so that there was no conflict of interest (go and eat and possibly miss something or stay birding?). We cruised off the south coast of the main Chatham Island for the remainder of the evening where an equally rare sea bird, the Chatham Island Petrel, is known to breed. We persisted searching as the weather and sea conditions deteriorated and were rewarded with another great sighting of a Taiko. This bird came in and around the vessel on at least three occasions enabling everybody to have great views. Two great sightings of what is arguably the world’s rarest bird in one day. It doesn’t come any better than that!