Rook sighting in Nelson - have you seen this bird?

A rook has been sighted in the Stoke area.

Rooks are not established anywhere in the South Island, and sightings are rare. They are a significant pest that can cause serious damage to horticultural crops, and we do not want them to establish here.

Rooks also prey on native species, including small and ground nesting birds and their eggs, lizards and invertebrates.

They are a noticeably large, glossy black crow-like bird that grows up to 450mm in length. Rooks have a distinctive grey bill with a pale area at the base of the beak, and a distinctive call – check it out here: https://buff.ly/46XkY9p

If you see one (or think you’ve seen one) please report it immediately to Nelson City Council's biosecurity team ph: 546 0200 or email biosecurity@ncc.govt.nz.

Grab a picture or video if you can!