Every year, the return of the bar-tailed godwits to New Zealand marks one of nature’s most astonishing migratory feats. These slender long-beaked shorebirds complete a nonstop perilous flight of over 11000km from Alaska to New Zealand which takes about eight to ten days – without rest, food or water. Astonishing stamina and navigational precision! Their return coincides with spring and an influx of food, necessary for them to refuel after their epic journey. The swooshing sound they make as 1000+ birds take off is a life experience not to be missed. It was my great pleasure to spend last weekend welcoming these amazing travellers back to Miranda on the Firth of Thames.
