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There's plenty to see and do at the estuary.
The estuary walkway provides beautiful views, and there are signs along the way providing information about some of the birds you might see.
There is a lot of interesting wildlife at the estuary. As well as birds, the estuary is also home to some interesting plants and is an important habitat for native fish.
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The Manawatū Estuary Trust enjoys giving people the opportunity to learn more about this amazing environ
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Warou/Welcome swallow Hirundo neoxena
Native. Not threatened.
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A rare vagrant until the early 1960's, this now familiar species is self-introduced, originating from Australia and is now classed as native.
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They are a common sight around the area and are frequently seen around the estuary, either singly, in loose groups or en masse. A large gathering, usually on power lines tend to indicate some movement in or out of the area, usually during autumn or spring.
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Swallows forage aerially for small flying insects swooping low over water or land. They drink by scooping fresh water from the surface of lakes or ponds.
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Nests are built of mud and are usually attached to a vertical surface. Three to five eggs are laid and hatch after fifteen days. Chicks leave the nest at around eighteen days.
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nzbirdsonline-Welcome Swallow​
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