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The Pukeko Story
Pukeko (pronounced poo-kek-ko) also known as Purple Gallinule or Purple Swamphen Porphyrio Porphyrio
Pukeko are not indigenous to New Zealand but occur across many South Pacific islands. Outside NZ the birds are usually referred to as Purple Swamphen and are classified as a single species Porphyrio Porphyrio with six subspecies.
The Swamphens which colonized NZ probably flew across from Australia a thousand years ago or less. Despite their belonging to the same subspecies (melanoths) NZ Swamphens are slightly larger than their Australian neighbours.
Being part of the rail family Pukeko are generally found in or near wetland habitats. They feed mainly on roots, seeds and shoots of grasses.
The Pukeko may have one of the most interesting and complex social systems of any bird species in the world. They live in communal groups and often two female birds will share the same nest (a rare occurrence in the bird world). The chicks can swim and walk at a day old, yet need brooding, feeding and protection from predators for several weeks before they are ready to leave the nest.
Observe these interesting, and sometimes comical birds, from our Pukeko's Nest.