Blue Duck/ Whio are a taonga (treasured) species that Māori have a strong cultural, spiritual, and historic connection with. Their name in Te Reo Māori is Whio in the North Island, or Ko Whio Whio in the South Island, which depicts the call of the male bird. Whio are believed to be an ancient species of waterfowl that appeared at a very early stage in evolutionary history. Their isolation in New Zealand has resulted in unique anatomical and behavioural features. It features alongside Kate Sheppard on the New Zealand $10 note. The Blue Duck is a river specialist, and is one of the few waterfowl species that live year round on fast-flowing rivers. They are a key indicator of healthy rivers and streams. The more breeding pairs of Blue Duck present, the healthier the river. Blue Duck are found nowhere else in the world, and are rarer than some species of kiwi. The total population is between 2,000 and 3,000 birds- a number that is declining.
Finished size 10 x 10 cm
All needlepoint kits have the design stamped on the canvas in colour.
They come complete with STRAND unique mohair/wool yarn to finish the design and a needle. A chart is also included.
Design is printed on 18 count canvas.
