Te Pīpīwharauroa (Papuan Harrier)

Te Pīpīwharauroa, or the Papuan Harrier, is a bird native to parts of New Zealand, Australia, and nearby islands. It’s known for its graceful flight and striking appearance, with males having distinctive forearm markings and females typically being duller. These birds are adaptable hunters, feeding on small animals like insects and rodents, often hunting from perches or while flying low over fields. They are also known for their loud, melodic calls and strong, soaring flight. As a ground-nesting bird, they play a vital role in their ecosystems, helping control pest populations.