Māori bird lore: An introduction

By Murdoch Riley (B100) ISBN 9780854671007 BOOK TYPE: Hardback DIMENSIONS: 250mm X 315mm PAGES: 216 Colour illustrations by Keulemans. Absolutely beautiful coloured illustrations by Keulemans. This is a ABC of New Zealand Birds. Starting with the Albatross, Bellbird, Cuckoo, Dotterell,Duck Falcon,Fantail,Fernbird,Godwit,Gull,Harrier,Heron,Huia,Kaka, Kakapo,Kea,Kereru,Kingfisher,Kiwi,Kokak, Morepork,Owl, Parakeet,Pipit, Pukeko,Quail,Rail,Rifleman, Robin,Saddleback,Shag,Silvereye, Stitchbird,Takahe,Tomtit,Tui,Warbler, Weka and a Whitehead. Myths and traditions, some coming from legendary Hawaiki. Outlines the spiritual significance to the Māori of various birds; their economic value for their flesh, feathers, oil, bones and skins, and the rituals deemed necessary to capture them. The ability of certain birds to predict future happenings is yet another fascinating subject covered.