A beloved, iconic NZ native who charms all those who see it.
Their Māori name kōtare refers to a stage in the fence of a pā, used to watch for enemies. Kōtare were admired by Māori for being like a watchful sentry. Often spotted perching on power lines, branches, washing lines, rock piles – anything two metres above the ground with a decent view. They sit hunched and motionless as they watch for prey. Then in a flash and a streak of blue/green, they will dive for their target.
These beautiful birds are not classified as endangered and while their numbers did drop, are increasing again.
I used a reference photo for this painting, the photo is called “Kingfisher in flight” by Roger Smith from Waikanae as shown in Kāpiti News in 2020
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.