Black Stilt
NameBlack Stilt
Common NameBlack Stilt
Scientific NameHimantopus novaezelandiae
FamilyRecurvirostridae
Wingspan (cm)63
Length (cm)38.5
Weight (g)235
Plumage DetailsAdults are entirely glossy black, often with a slight greenish sheen. They have bright red eyes and very long, slender, bright red legs. The bill is long, thin, and black. Juveniles may show some white on the underparts, which gradually disappears as they mature.
Vocalization / CallKnown for sharp, yelping, and somewhat reedy calls, often described as 'kyeek' or 'kek-kek-kek', especially when alarmed or interacting.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statuscritically-endangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to New Zealand, primarily found in the Mackenzie Basin of the South Island, utilizing braided river systems and associated wetlands.
Identifying FeaturesAll-black plumage, Extremely long, bright red legs, Slender, straight black bill, Red eyes, Wading behavior in shallow water
Description
The Black Stilt is a critically endangered wading bird endemic to New Zealand, distinguished by its entirely black plumage and strikingly long, bright red legs. It actively forages in shallow freshwater habitats, probing for aquatic invertebrates with its slender bill.
