Larry's Gallery:   Black-tailed Native-hen (1/3)

GRUIFORMES: Rallidae

Tribonyx ventralis  

Now what can one say about the black-tailed native hen?

It's got a yellow eye (described in one book as a 'direct penetrating stare' - is that bird trying to read my mind? Look away, look away!)

It's got a green bill with an interesting red splodge thereon;

It's got a bluey-grey front and a browny-grey back;

It's also got red legs (described in the same book as 'intense carmine-pink'!)

Paint Store: "I'd like to get a can of paint in this colour please." - "Yes Sir, that would be our 'intense carmine-pink' but egads sir please take that bird's leg outside!"

To continue - there are some curious white spots just above the legs.

That's it really. Oh yeah hang on, it's got a black tail.