Ranger Robyn Schlaepfer's granddaughter Sage Schlaepfer with Dell a few years ago.
Ranger Robyn Schlaepfer's granddaughter Sage Schlaepfer with Dell a few years ago.
After an illustrious life as Ngā Manu Nature Reserve's celebrity tūī, Dell the tūī has passed away.
Discovered last week by volunteer Tony Ward and examined by volunteer vet Andrea Wilson, Dell had no signs of injury, so it is believed she died of natural causes.
Dell enjoyed a celebritystatus during her time at Ngā Manu due to her wonderful friendly nature and incredible vocals.
However, life wasn't always easy for Dell.
Dell, captured by local photographer Fairlie Atkinson.
Coming to Ngā Mau as a hatchling in January 2015, Dell was brought in after being found in a drain by a council worker, soaking wet and underweight.
She was raised by Ngā Manu ranger Robyn Schlaepfer, and after a few weeks of recovery was released into the reserve.
She refused to fly away from the buildings and became a target for other wild birds, so a new home was found for her in the kea aviary.
Life then picked up for Dell, who became particularly fond of children and could confuse the rangers in the morning by mimicking the sounds of children playing.
