Tui are monogamous and form pair bonds. During the breeding season that occurs in early spring (September and October), they perform a mating display of rising at speed in a vertical climb in clear air, before stalling and dropping into a powered dive, then repeating.

Do male and female TUIS look the same?

Male tui are 50 per cent heavier than females and also have larger ornamental white plumes than females. They warble these plumes while they sing during male contests and female courtship. It is thought that these traits are used as indicators of a males' quality.

Do TUIS get drunk?

"They get a bit cheeky and sometimes make a hell of a row. They behave as if they are drunk and are very noisy. I've been told they get drunk, but it might be just their behaviour at this time of year.