Author(s): Kathy Ombler

New Zealand | Science & Nature

New Zealand's remarkable range of landscapes is home to an equally spectacular avian fauna. Not only are its endemic and native species at the top of any bird-watcher's must-see list, but its roll-call of seabirds, such as albatrosses and petrels, is world-renowned. In "Where to Watch Birds in New Zealand" Kathy Ombler introduces more than 30 of New Zealand's finest birding sites, with a full description of the location as well as a list of the birds to watch out for. Here are just a few examples of the sites that are covered: Otago Peninsula, home to colonies of northern royal albatross, yellow-eyed and blue penguins and many other seabird species; Kapiti Island, huge predator-free island that is a refuge for kokako, takahe, saddleback and stitchbird; and, Farewell Spit, which gives seasonal lodging to hundreds of thousands of New Zealand and overseas migrants.All the sites can be visited privately or with guided tours, and many of the tour and sanctuary operators have good connections with key bird-watching organisations in the Britain and the US. The book also includes location maps, colour photography, a list of all the species mentioned, plus a shortlist of 'must-see' birds, as well as travel tips and accommodation information for visitors. First published September 2007.