Tuesday 11 February 2014

Variable Oyster Catcher



The Variable Oyster Catcher is found only in New Zealand and is protected due to its low numbers.  It varies in colour from black and white to pure black and has a red bill, red-orange eye ring and pink legs.  



It is larger than the Pied Oyster Catcher at 48cm (nearly 19in) long and can live up to 27 years.



They can be very noisy and this one was not shy about telling us to move on.  I think there might have been a nest nearby as he tried to lead us away.


I'm linking with


25 comments:

  1. I like these waders and the backdrop of the driftwood is perfect

    ReplyDelete
  2. I love the Oystercatchers, they are cool looking birds. Great shots. Have a happy day!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Now there's a real beauty, great photos Jocee. He is a very striking bird.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Love birding myself...I have a 2nd blog devoted to bird photos. LOL

    This oystercatcher is all black! The ones we have here in South Texas are black and white. Your photos are great.

    ReplyDelete
  5. What a cool looking bird! Love those pink legs!

    ReplyDelete
  6. Fabulous shots! Our oystercatcher is black and white.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. We have some pied ones too but I haven't seen one yet.

      Delete
  7. I love the contrast of the bright orange beak against the deep blue water!

    ReplyDelete
  8. I love to see these guys along the beach. They stand out from the gulls.

    ReplyDelete
  9. Great photos of the Variable Oystercatcher. We don't have them here in Australia but we do have an all-black oystercatcher that we call a "Sooty Oystercatcher".

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. They are probably cousins from way back :)

      Delete
  10. Replies
    1. Yes, looks rather heavy to carry around.

      Delete
  11. Fantastic pictures. I didn't even know there was a Variable Oystercatcher. Thanks for enlightening me.

    ReplyDelete
  12. That bright beak and eye are striking against the black feathers. Beautiful bird.

    ReplyDelete
  13. I love seeing birds from all over. I am glad this one is protected. Great photos for Nature Notes... Michelle

    ReplyDelete

Thanks for your comments, I love reading them and whenever possible, visiting you in return.