Rare Kiwi Bird Rediscovered in New Zealand After 50 Years

In a remarkable turn of events, a rare bird species previously thought extinct on New Zealand's mainland has been rediscovered after a hiatus of half a century. This extraordinary discovery involves a female Pukupuku kiwi, also known as the dwarf kiwi or little spotted kiwi, which was spotted on the West Coast of the South Island by a hunter. The Department of Conservation (DOC) confirmed this exciting news, describing it as a significant achievement.

The Pukupuku, scientifically classified as Apteryx owenii, is recognized as the smallest and rarest of all kiwi species. For many years, it was believed that these birds could only be found on offshore islands or in predator-free areas, making this sighting all the more astonishing. The kiwi was located in the remote Adams Wilderness Area.

Following the initial sighting, conservation ranger Iain Graham and his specially trained conservation dog, Brew, were dispatched to the area to locate the bird. Graham recounted the thrilling moment when he first heard the calls of the kiwis. He noted that their sounds were distinct and unlike those of other kiwi species he had encountered before. It took several days of navigating through challenging terrain before he finally spotted the elusive bird at night.

Graham collected a few tiny feathers from the kiwi to confirm its species, marking a significant milestone in the conservation efforts for this endangered bird. Emily King, the leader of the Kiwi Recovery Group, expressed that the rediscovery is nothing short of miraculous. The last documented sighting of a Pukupuku on the mainland occurred in 1978, and despite extensive efforts over the years, no other sightings had been reported.

Kiwis are unique flightless birds endemic to New Zealand and are considered the national bird. They are known for their unusual characteristics, including poor eyesight and a distinctive sense of smell, often described as musty. The kiwi holds a special place in the hearts of New Zealanders, so much so that the term 'kiwi' has become a colloquialism for the people of New Zealand.

This discovery not only brings hope for the future of the Pukupuku but also highlights the importance of continued conservation efforts in protecting New Zealand's unique wildlife.