New Zealand Saddleback Merino Wool Dress Socks NZNC

Quick facts

• There are two species: North Island saddleback (Philesturnus rufusater) and South Island saddleback (P. carunculatus).
• The most endangered of the two species is the South Island saddleback, with only 650 birds in existence.
• It is a medium sized bird, and adults of both sexes have similar plumage.
• A main feature is a conspicuous chestnut-coloured saddle on its back, but it also has chestnut on the tip of its tail, a black bill, black legs, and orange, 'fleshy' wattles either side of its throat.
• Young South Island saddleback/tÄ«eke (less than 15 months old) have a different plumage from adults. They are entirely dark brown with smaller wattles.
• South Island birds assume a saddleback marking by the end of the second moult.
• North Island birds assume a saddleback marking before they leave the nest.
• Juveniles are known as "jack-birds".
• Saddlebacks are very vocal birds. The males have a repertoire of melodious calls that they use during mating and in territorial disputes.
• The male has larger wattles than the female.
• Size: 25cm
• Weight: males 80 grams, females 70 grams.