Photo of the week: Tīeke/saddleback

Today’s photo is of a tīeke/saddleback in Polhill Reserve, Wellington.

The tīeke belongs to New Zealand’s unique wattlebird family, an ancient group which includes the endangered kōkako and the extinct huia.

Thanks to the great work of the Polhill Restoration Project at keeping predators at bay, the tīeke from Zealandia are expanding beyond the sanctuary fence.

During Conservation Week DOC is encouraging people to ‘join the team’ by helping out with their local restoration groups.

To find out more information on how you can join your local restoration group head to the DOC website.

Photo: Paul Stanley Ward