Paradise shelduck
Scientific name: Tadorna variegata
- How weight is recorded: Whole weight
Field notes
Appearance
Large dabbling duck with striking sexual dimorphism. Males have iridescent dark green heads, chestnut breasts, and grey bodies; females are warm buff-brown with darker markings. Both show white wing patches in flight.
Size and weight
Males 1.9–2.3 kg, females 1.5–1.8 kg; body length 58–65 cm.
Habitat
Found in open grasslands, river valleys, and tussock country from lowland flats to subalpine zones. Prefers areas with short vegetation and access to water.
Distribution
Endemic to New Zealand, found across both main islands in suitable open country from coastal lowlands to high-country basins.
Diet
Primarily grazes grass and clover; also dabbles for aquatic plants and invertebrates, with diet shifting more aquatic during winter.
Behaviour
Highly terrestrial and vocal; active at dawn and dusk but will graze throughout the day. Pairs are long-term monogamous and highly territorial; often seen in small flocks outside breeding season.
Hunting tips
Look for fresh droppings and grazing trails in short tussock and grass. Glass open flats early and late in the day; birds move between roosting water and feeding grounds. Stalk into wind through low cover; they flush noisily but with predictable flight lines along river valleys.
Whole weight
This species is logged by whole weight — the animal weighed entire, as taken.
Where it is hunted
Listed as huntable in 1 country in Huntify.
Names in other languages
Current language: en
These field notes are general species knowledge, not legal advice. Always check the current seasons, quotas and firearm rules where you hunt.