Chatham Islands, New Zealand

The Chatham Island tui translocated by the Taiko Trust from Rangatira Island to the Awatotara Manuel and Evelyn Tuanui Family Covenant in March are doing well.  All 14 birds are still visiting the feeders, and an unbanded bird, first seen during DOCs parea survey, has also joined the group.

Liz Tuanui reported today that the first signs of breeding have been spotted with one banded bird seen collecting dry grass.  Bruce Tuanui was able to follow the bird to its nest in a hoho tree.

Banded tui have been seen in several gardens on the South coast - Ollie Seymour was particularly delighted to see them feeding on karo flowers in her garden as she has not seen them  since she was a girl at Te Awatea 60 years ago.