Welcome to August! We hope you’ll enjoy this months free pattern, the Huia Collar
The Huia is an extinct species of New Zealand wattlebird, with metallic black feathers that had a green and bluish-purple sheen, long tail feathers, orange wattles, and a long-curved beak. The Huia population throughout New Zealand saw a rapid decline in the 19th century, likely as a result of a combination of bush clearance, predation and hunting that occurred during settlement. Despite laws introduced to protect the species, unfortunately, it was too late to avoid their extinction.
The Huia bird is regarded by Māori as tapu (sacred), and as a result, the wearing of its skin or feathers was reserved for people who held high statuses such as chiefs and people of great mana (power/ authority). These feathers were a symbol of a symbol of nobility, leadership and hierarchy.
The Huia were known for the beautiful tunes they would sing with male and female birds whistling different calls. Huia were understood to pair for life, birds who had found their one were often heard singing duets, alternating their special calls.
Inspired by the gorgeous feathers of the Huia, add some wonderful detail to your outfits this month with the Huia Collar, crafted in Air Chunky.
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