Story: Ngā manu – birds

Spotted shag (1st of 2)

Spotted shag

This kawau pāteketeke (spotted shag) is at Little Akaloa, Banks Peninsula. The bird extends its neck as it prepares for flight. The saying ‘Ka mārō te kakī o te kawau’ (the neck of the shag is stiffened) refers to a column of men prepared to meet their enemies with a haka (war dance).

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Natural Sciences Image Library of New Zealand
Reference: DSCI1401Smd.JPG
Photograph by Peter E. Smith

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How to cite this page:

Kelly Keane-Tuala, 'Ngā manu – birds - Sayings, metaphors and stories', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/12171/spotted-shag (accessed 25 April 2024)

Story by Kelly Keane-Tuala, published 24 Sep 2007, reviewed & revised 17 Feb 2015