The Black-billed Gull, also known as Tarāpuka, is one of New Zealand's rarest endemic gulls and is classified as nationally endangered.

 

Although it breeds mainly on the braided rivers of the South Island, many birds disperse to coastal estuaries, beaches and river mouths outside the breeding season, including habitats like Waikawa Beach.

 

Feeding on aquatic insects, crustaceans, small fish and other freshwater invertebrates, Tarāpuka play an important role in maintaining healthy ecosystems.

 

They can be recognised by their slender black bill, pale grey wings and elegant appearance, and are an important reminder of the need to protect New Zealand's unique freshwater and coastal environments.

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