Australasian crested grebe, known as "vomiting grebe," named bird of the century
The Australasian crested grebe, also known as puteketeke or the "vomiting grebe," was declared bird of the century in an international poll run by New Zealand. Comedian and satirist John Oliver played a role in this victory, causing the counting system to glitch due to the massive vote influx.
7:21 AM EST, November 16, 2023
New Zealand's "Bird of the Century" is the Australasian crested grebe, as reported by PAP. The Forest and Bird Foundation organizes the annual poll, but this year, for the first time, the system failed during the vote count. The failure was attributed to an unusually high number of votes.
Global Campaign
British-American humorist John Oliver stirred things up in the poll. He actively participated in a global campaign in favor of the puteketeke, or the Australasian crested grebe.
Oliver not only funded but also led a campaign promoting the "vomiting grebe" in not just New Zealand, but in countries like the United Kingdom, India, France, and the United States. He proudly narrated his campaign journey on his talk show. "To subvert foreign elections with American funds - what's not to take pride in?" he jocularly said.
His campaign resulted in so many international votes that the counting system froze. The foundation had to delay the announcement of the results. However, the foundation reacted positively to this commotion and the global campaign, significantly influencing the poll's outcome.
"The puteketeke warrants the title of Bird of the Century. Their numbers are increasing gradually, which is wonderful. This award selection proves that endangered species can rebound if we assist them," stated the Forest and Bird Foundation.
What Makes the Australasian Crested Grebe Unique?
According to the Forest and Bird Foundation, there are fewer than three thousand specimens of this bird in Australia and New Zealand. These birds are renowned for their ability to regurgitate on demand, a method they use to rid themselves of parasites. Furthermore, the puteketeke is known for producing peculiar sounds and for its chicks' habit of hitching rides on their parents' backs.
