Matuku / Australasian bittern

Botaurus poiciloptilus

Threatened - Nationally Critical

Secretive and seldom seen, the Australasian Bittern is one of Aotearoa’s rarest wetland birds – and a powerful indicator of ecosystem health. Also known as matuku-hūrepo, this elusive species is master of camouflage, blending perfectly into raupō and reed beds. Fewer than 1,000 remain in New Zealand, making every sighting precious and every wetland restoration effort critical. 

Quick Facts:

• Known as the “bunyip bird” for its deep, booming call, which can be heard over long distances at dawn and dusk. 
• Bitterns freeze with their bills pointed skyward when threatened – a pose that mimics reeds and makes them nearly invisible. 
• Their survival depends on healthy, predator-free wetlands – making them a flagship species for freshwater biodiversity. 
• They’re so secretive, most are detected by sound rather than sight during breeding season. 

Conserving matuku-hūrepo means protecting and restoring the wetlands they call home — a win for this remarkable bird and the many species that thrive alongside it. 

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