Rediscovery of Chatham Island taiko Pterodroma magentae

The Chatham Island Taiko Pterodroma magentae (Aves: Procellariidae) was rediscovered on 1 January 1978 in its traditional breeding grounds in the Tuku Gully in the south west of main Chatham Island. The history of efforts to rediscover Pterodroma magentae (known as the Magenta Petrel) and to identify the mysterious Chatham Island Taiko are described. The identity of the Chatham Island Taiko and the Magenta Petrel is confirmed. Aspects of behaviour, habitat, morphology, and ecology of the species are reviewed. To date, 42 Taiko have been banded; 12 recaptures suggest a population of over 100 birds. Night observations of flying birds and times of burrow use indicate that the breeding season extends from mid-September to mid- May. Efforts to discover the breeding grounds before the assistance of radio telemetry are summarised.