Pied Stilt

Himantopus himantopus is the checklist treatment for New Zealand’s common pied stilt, locally called poaka. It differs from black stilt through its white underparts, black back and much more widespread distribution. It has extremely long pink legs, a fine black bill and black-and-white plumage. Females may show a browner back, and young birds have duller legs.

Poaka occur throughout New Zealand on shallow fresh and coastal wetlands. Mudflats, flooded pasture, lake edges and braided rivers are used. They pick aquatic insects and crustaceans from shallow water and mud. Adults perform noisy distraction displays near eggs or chicks.

The New Zealand classification is Not Threatened. Miranda Shorebird Centre, Lake Ellesmere Te Waihora and Ahuriri Estuary offer easy viewing.