Little Black Shag

Kawau tūī is a small all-black shag that often hunts in tightly coordinated flocks. Its slim black body, thin grey bill and dark facial skin separate it from the much larger māpunga with yellow face and cream throat.

It is widespread but patchy on the North and South islands, especially in northern freshwater and estuarine habitats. Groups drive schools of small fish through shallow water and dive almost in unison; colonies are built in trees over water.

Little black shag is At Risk — Naturally Uncommon (NZ Threat Classification). Set nets, fishing tackle, disturbance and wetland loss affect local groups. Rotorua lakes, Waikato wetlands and northern harbours often hold feeding flocks.