Habitat:
Forests, wooded areas, urban gardens

Activity period :
Mainly active at night, generally discreet during the day.

Identification and description:
The Morepork, or Ninox novaeseelandiae, is a medium-sized owl native to New Zealand and Australia. It is easily identified by its brown plumage speckled with white and its large yellow eyes. This nocturnal raptor is an agile hunter, feeding primarily on insects and small mammals. Its distinctive call, resembling "more-pork," is often heard in forests and wooded areas. The Morepork is a solitary bird, although it can be seen in pairs during the breeding season. It prefers dense forest habitats but can also be found in urban gardens and parks.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Morepork, plan your outings at night, as this bird is primarily active during these hours. Use a 400mm or longer lens to capture detailed images from a distance without disturbing the bird. A tripod is recommended to stabilize your camera in low-light conditions. Be patient and wait for the bird to perch on an open branch to get a good angle.