Common Kingfisher

Endangered Species New Zealand Kaka... A large olive-brown forest parrot with grey-white crown, bright red-orange underwing and deep crimson belly and under-tail coverts. Males have a noticeably longer and deeper upper mandible and bigger head than females which is apparent when the two are seen side by side. (QR Code Expired) https://nzbirdsonline.org.nz/species/kaka Listen: https://nzbirdsonline.org.nz/sites/all/files/03%20-%20Track%203_0.mp3

I just finished the Calandra Lark. Here are some facts about this beautiful bird... Appearance: It's a large lark, about 17.5-20 cm long, with a robust build, a heavy bill, and noticeable pale eyebrows . Its plumage is mainly greyish-brown streaked above and white below, with large black patches on the breast sides. Habitat: This species is found in open plains, steppes, pastures, and dry cereal cultivations. It's mainly resident in the west of its range but Russian populations migrate further south in winter. Diet: Their main food source is seeds, but they also consume insects when nesting. Behaviour: Calandra Larks are known to be gregarious outside the breeding season, often forming large flocks. Song: Their song is considered musical and slower than the Skylark's. It has been historically popular as a cagebird.

During WW1 these dogs were attached to ambulance units to search for wounded soldiers.