Flesh-footed shearwater

Seen on the water around the island from spring to autumn, especially from November to January. They gather behind fishing boats, so check any big dark shearwater following a boat for a pale bill.

Story

Fewer than 12,000 pairs breed in New Zealand, on about 15 islands around the north and in Cook Strait. The biggest colonies are on the Hen and Chickens and Mercury Islands and on Ohinau Island. Many have drowned on fishing hooks and lines. Rat eradications on their breeding islands and changes in fishing practice have helped, and in 2021 they were moved out of the Threatened categories.

Behaviour

Toanui fly on long, broad wings and make shallow dives into fish shoals, sometimes down to 30 m. They're bold around boats, sitting behind recreational fishers and diving for bait and scraps, which is how many get hooked.