Rare treat for visiting heron

A kotuku, or white heron, has been turning heads on Taylor River in Blenheim.

The heron was seen feeding on small eels near the Monro St entrance to the Taylor River reserve yesterday.

The rare wetland native bird has come from Okarito on the West Coast, from a colony of about 100 birds.

Phil Bradfield, Department of Conservation south Marlborough biodiversity manager, said it was quite possible it was the same heron that visited Blenheim last year.

"They usually hang around until September, and then they head back down to the coast to start laying their eggs."

It was not unusual for the herons to feed in residents' ponds and clean up goldfish.

"Put nets over your ponds if you are worried, but also feel privileged a native and very rare species has come to visit you for a day or two," Mr Bradfield said.

The herons disperse throughout New Zealand from early June They feast on small eels, small fish, frogs, shrimps and, occasionally, small birds, Mr Bradfield said.

- The Marlborough Express

Last updated 13:00 07/07/2011

DEREK FLYNN/Marlborough Express

EELICIOUS: This eel put up a struggle before it became a mid-afternoon snack for the white heron visiting Blenheim.