An unusual sight on the beach today: a Karetai hurukoko | Cape petrel, probably exhausted — it didn't move when I came close but managed to get away from a small wave. 🐦

New Zealand status: Native; Conservation status: Naturally Uncommon.

Gull sized bird with black head and black and white chequers on its body, sitting on wet sand.
The bird has its wings spread as an incoming wave bubbles round its legs.