Three closely related species, endemic to New Zealand and
subantarctic islands, were once included in this taxon. Now two subspecies have become species in their own
right, leaving this as a New Zealand endemic. When these photos were taken Brown Teal was endangered, probably
less than 1000 birds restricted to Great Barrier Island and a couple of reintroduced populations on islands in
the Hauraki Gulf. Now, thanks to intensive management it now numbers upwards of 3000 and is found at several
sites, mainly on North Island and Great Barrier. It has been downgraded to near-threatened.
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HOMEPAGE
