Following a recent survey between December 2024 and February 2025, Reef Heron numbers in the Auckland region appear to be critically low.
This information was revealed last evening during our Auckland Regional Birds NZ meeting. I was rather dismayed to hear that only 10 nests were located and only a few reef heron observed.
I have always enjoyed watching these birds when I have come across them. I have observed them on Motuihe Island, Mangawhai estuary, Huia in the Waitakeres and also in the middle of the Shoal estuary.