New Zealand Dabchick

Poliocephalus rufopectus, the weweia, is an endemic small grebe of the North Island. It differs from hoary-headed grebe through its dark cap, chestnut neck and bright yellow eye. Adults are dark above with a chestnut lower face and neck and silvery body. The short pale-tipped bill and yellow eye are conspicuous.

It occurs on sheltered lakes and ponds across much of the North Island. It is absent naturally from the South Island in modern times. It dives for small fish, aquatic insects and crustaceans. Pairs build floating nests anchored to submerged vegetation.

The New Zealand classification is Nationally Increasing. Lake Rotorua, Lake Rotoiti and Zealandia’s lower reservoir offer good viewing.