The kererū or New Zealand wood pigeon is a beautiful, iconic bird native to New Zealand and often seen across Southland. The kererū is one of the largest species of pigeons in the world, measuring about 50 centimeters in length and weighing around 550 grams. It has a distinctive appearance with a…
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Most of these curious brown flightless birds are renowned for being heard and not seen with their distinctively loud ‘coo-et’ that is usually heard at dusk. However, Weka living close to farms or tramping huts have been known to become very charismatic. It is very common for these more domesticated…
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Thought to be the most intelligent bird on Earth, the kea is only found in Alpine areas of the South Island. Scientists believe they possess around the same intelligence as a seven-year-old human, and they have been found to work well in teams. They’re not quite able to complete a Rubix cube, but…
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Here in Southland, you might encounter both the Kakaruai/South Island robin, also known as the South Island tomtit or the Toutouwai/Stewart Island Robin, a subspecies. As you may have guessed, the Stewart Island robin is found exclusively on Rakiura Stewart Island. The South Island robin is more…
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A relative of the kea, the kākā is a large and charismatic parrot that is native to New Zealand that can be separated into two subspecies: the North Island kākā and the South Island kākā. They can measure up to about 45-50 centimeters in length. Kākā are infamous for their raucous voices, and Māori…
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Despite appearing to be perennially angry due to their arched eyebrows, the pīwakawaka / fantail are some of the friendliest birds that can be found in Southland. They are very common and native to New Zealand and other parts of the Asia-Pacific region. Fantails are insectivorous, feeding primarily…
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The tūī is a striking and iconic bird species native to New Zealand. Known for its distinctive appearance, beautiful song, and charismatic behavior, the tūī holds a special place in New Zealand's natural heritage. Tūī can be found throughout the country and are often seen near flowering trees and…
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Did you know that there are more species of penguins that call New Zealand home than any other country? We are particularly blessed with these beautiful birds here in Southland as we have three species that can be found on our shores. The tawaki Fiordland crested penguins can be found along the…
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The flightless takahē is a unique bird, a conservation icon and a survivor that is endemic to New Zealand. Its body is covered in dark feathers with a distinctive blue-green sheen. The bird has a robust build, strong legs, and a thick, red bill. Thought to be extinct for nearly half a century…
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The kākāpō is a native bird species in New Zealand and the world’s largest and heaviest parrot, growing to around 60 centimeters high and weighing up to 4 kilograms. These magnificent birds sport bright green plumage and possess almost clownlike feet. The bird's most distinctive feature is its face…
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