Exploring the Kotare: New Zealand's Enchanting Kingfisher

In New Zealand's rich tapestry of wildlife, the kiwi and tui often steal the spotlight. Yet, perched along our pristine riverbanks and woven into our lush landscapes, is an equally captivating creature: the Kotare, or sacred kingfisher.

Meet the Kotare

The Kotare (Halcyon sancta) reigns as one of New Zealand's most striking native birds. Its plumage shimmers with iridescent blues and greens, contrasting elegantly with its crisp white underbelly. This medium-sized hunter, measuring 25 to 30 centimetres, wields a robust bill perfectly adapted for catching prey.

A Bird at Home

From coastal stretches to forest clearings and wetland sanctuaries, the Kotare demonstrates remarkable adaptability. These masterful hunters favour rivers, streams, and lakes where their preferred prey abounds. Their presence graces every corner of New Zealand, from the warmth of the North Island to the rugged South Island and our scattered offshore havens.

Nature's Expert Fisher

As a skilled predator, the Kotare maintains nature's delicate balance by regulating populations of fish, insects, and crustaceans. Watch one at work, and you'll witness poetry in motion: perched motionless on an overhanging branch, its keen eyes track movement below before executing a precise dive that rarely misses its mark.

In Māori culture, the Kotare transcends its role as a mere hunter. This sacred bird embodies good fortune, its image woven deeply into traditional stories and ancestral carvings.

Family Life

Kotare pairs transform riverbanks and hollow trees between August and January into nurseries. They carefully excavate burrows where females lay three to six eggs. The dedication of both parents ensures their chicks emerge strong and capable after four to five weeks of care.

Protecting Our Heritage

Though not currently endangered, the Kotare faces habitat loss and declining water quality challenges. Conservation efforts across New Zealand focus on preserving waterways and restoring wetlands—vital sanctuaries for these remarkable birds.

A Personal Connection

The Kotares that visit our property offer daily displays of nature's artistry, whether hunting above our stream or resting in nearby trees. Their graceful presence inspired me to capture their essence in watercolour, incorporating delicate floral patterns that reflect our home's natural beauty.

I've translated this inspiration into a watercolour print, which you can explore at Kotare artwork. The piece celebrates Kotare's natural elegance and cultural significance in our New Zealand heritage.