Embarking on a seven-day pelagic birding expedition to the enchanting Chatham Islands, our group of eight avid bird enthusiasts, led by the seasoned organiser Steve Wood who contracted Owenga Charters, set out for an unforgettable adventure. Nestled near Owenga Wharf, we found our haven in two cozy units provided by Owenga Charters, complete with the convenience of their trusty mini-van.
Over the course of four exhilarating days, we ventured into the vast ocean, exploring The Pyramid, The Forty Fours, Rangatira South-East Island, Mangere Island, and Rekohu Chatham Island. Our primary focus was on spotting the elusive Chatham Petrel, Chatham Taiko/Magenta Petrel, and the recently distinguished Pyramid Prion (formerly Fulmar Prion). Delightfully, both the Pyramid Prion and Chatham Petrel graced us with their presence, allowing us to capture their beauty through our lenses.
The avian wonders continued as Forbes’ Parakeet made a predicted appearance, posing for photographs off Robin Bay at Mangere Island. Between birding sessions, we dedicated our time on Rekohu Chatham Island to seek out and photograph other Chatham endemics, including the Parea Chatham Pigeon and Chatham Warbler at Tuku Reserve. The rugged coast near Owenga treated us to sightings of the Chatham Oystercatcher, Chatham Island Shag, and Pitt Island Shag.
Our birding tally reached an impressive 67 species, with highlights such as a Gould’s Petrel and a Snowy Albatross spotted at sea. Back on the main island, we marveled at the Chatham subspecies of Tui and Red-crowned Parakeet, alongside Yellowhammer, Pūkeko, Pacific Golden Plover, Ruddy Turnstone, and Bar-tailed Godwit.
Beyond the avian wonders, our journey unfolded with enchanting wildlife encounters, including the bustling New Zealand Fur Seal rookery at Point Munning, a Subantarctic Fur Seal, a playful pod of Common Dolphins, and the sleek Blue Sharks. Our adventure also introduced us to the endemic Chatham Red Admiral Butterfly, adding a touch of ethereal beauty to our experience.
A member of our group, with a keen eye for detail, immersed himself in the island’s flora. His botanical exploration unveiled Chatham endemics like Rautini (Chatham Christmas Tree), Keketerehe (Chatham Tree Daisy), Chatham Forget-me-not, Dracophyllum, Pseudopanax, Spear Grass Aciphylla, Mahoe, and Akeake, painting a vibrant tapestry of the islands’ unique biodiversity.
As the sun set on our pelagic odyssey, each day brought new wonders, leaving us with cherished memories and a profound appreciation for the ecological treasures of the Chatham Islands.