Cacao Tree

Pukeko

Code: NZPK

The Pukeko, also known as the swamp hen is a member of the rail family and dwell in swamps, along lake shores, and in poorly drained pastures throughout New Zealand and Chatham Islands.

The plumage is mainly indigo blue; the head and wings are black, the latter with a greenish gloss. The feathers beneath the tail are white, bill, legs, and feet are scarlet and the eyes ruby red. Their diet consists of the soft parts of aquatic vegetation, grasses, clover, berries, and seeds. Animals, too, are eaten, and these may include insects, worms, fish (eels) and, occasionally, very young birds and birds' eggs.