New Zealand Bird Species

New Zealand Bird Species

• Pīwakawaka (Fantail) is a small, common bird recognized by its fan-shaped tail.
• Kākā is a large, endangered forest parrot threatened by predators like rats, possums, stoats, and cats.
• Kākāpō is a large, flightless, nocturnal parrot and one of the most endangered birds in New Zealand.
• Kea is a famous, intelligent, and mischievous mountain parrot found in the South Island.

Kiwi and Related Species

• Kiwi is New Zealand's national icon, with various species including the little spotted kiwi, great spotted kiwi, and brown kiwi.

Other Native Birds

• Kōkako is a blue/grey forest bird with limited flying abilities, and the South Island species is assumed to be extinct.
• Ruru (Morepork) is New Zealand's only surviving owl, often heard in forests at night.
• Karearea (New Zealand falcon) is a bird of prey that can fly over 100 kilometers an hour.

Waterbirds and Ducks

• Pūtakitaki/Pūtangitangi (Paradise duck) is a native duck that mates for life and inhabits pastures, wetlands, and grasslands.
• Pūkeko is a common blue bird found in wetlands, often seen along roadsides, and prefers walking, wading, and swimming over flying.
• Pūteketeke (Australasian crested grebe) is a diving bird found in the South Island, known for its courtship displays.

Flightless Birds and Penguins

• Takahē is a critically endangered, flightless green and blue bird with a bright red beak.
• Penguins are flightless sea birds, with New Zealand having more species than any other country.

Other Notable Birds

• Tūī is a common forest bird recognized by its beautiful song and distinctive white tuft under its throat.
• Weka is a large, brown, flightless bird known for its curiosity and thieving behavior.
• Kōtuku (White heron) is a graceful white bird with a long neck.
• Kererū (Wood pigeon) is a forest bird with a heavy body, known for its audible wing flapping.