White-throated needletail

22/01/09 White-throated needle-tail, Hirundapus caudacutus, at Mt Hobson, Great Barrier Island

On 22 January 2009 Kathy Ombler (of “Where to Watch Birds in New Zealand” fame) saw and photographed a white-throated needletail (spine-tailed swift) on the summit of Hirakimata (Mt Hobson), Great Barrier Island. The bird was seen at approximately 2pm, and was on its own, circling the summit and making sweeping glides. It was sweeping quite close to people and kept doing so for about 5 – 10 minutes before disappearing. According to Heather and Robertson’s Field Guide, this is classic behaviour. Thanks to her for providing details and the image below.