The whio (Hymenolaimus malacorhynchos) is a beautiful but rare blue duck now only found in clear fast running waters of river or stream sections found in high altitudes of the North and South Islands. It’s given name - whio in the North Island or ko whio whio in the South - is derived from the distinct ‘whi - o’ or ‘fee - o’ call made by the male of the species. They have a soft black membrane at the tip of their beak which allows them to feel around rocks in the water in search of food. Another interesting trait is their ability to fold their webbed feet to increase streamlining when waterbourne.

Like tūturiwhatu and takahē, there are fewer individuals remaining than some species of kiwi. In the 2016 IUCN assessment there were thought to be fewer than 1600 mature individuals.

Edition of 100 printed to order, each print is hand signed and numbered on 310GSM textured cotton rag using archival quality inks and processes.