The Australasian swamphen (Porphyrio melanotus), commonly known as the pūkeko in New Zealand, is named for its semi-aquatic wetland habitat (swamps and marshes) and its membership in the rail family. Formerly classified as a subspecies of the broader purple swamphen (Porphyrio porphyrio), it is widespread across Oceania – including mainland Australia, Tasmania, eastern Indonesia (including the Moluccas), Papua New Guinea, and New Zealand (including the Chatham and Kermadec Islands). It favours freshwater habitats, making homes in swamps, marshes, reed beds, and artificial ponds. Its elongated toes allow it to easily navigate soft, muddy ground and walk across floating vegetation.
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