M-OKW
counted 40 babies
Adult bird fishing from the metal brace, occasionally going to rocks and back. Caught 2 fish in 14 minutes. Poor pics taken on cheap phone.
Father with 3 chicks under him.
Poor pic taken on cell phone.
Definite ID.
Last sighting by me was 22 July 2019. Do they migrate ?
One adult bird accidently disturbed from waters edge on the rock wall. Flew up on to wharf edge, then flew towards main breakwater.
Both chicks banded. Parents around. Should fledge in 2-3 weeks if all goes well. Fingers crossed.
2 chicks, about a week old. Low quality pics as it was getting dark. Built a rudimentary shelter for the chicks with a few logs, hope they make it. Parents around chasing BBGs.
Second attempt, hopefully goes better than the first one! Area has been roped off. Nest in an usual good location; top of a vegetated dune, mostly spinifex and pingao. As it is not exposed, I don't think we will install a protective cover.
One pair, no nest, casual rat run, head bobs. School and DOC informed.
What makes these sand colonies at the intertidal zone rock pools of north Taranaki? I have been fascinated by them since early childhood.
Practising within the roped-off area.