Huia
NameHuia
Common NameHuia
Scientific NameHeteralocha acutirostris
FamilyCallaeidae
Wingspan (cm)40
Length (cm)46.5
Weight (g)250
Plumage DetailsPredominantly glossy black with a metallic green sheen, especially on the head and back. It had distinctive bright orange wattles at the base of the bill and a broad, striking white band across the tips of the tail feathers.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a variety of calls, including soft, melodious whistles, often described as 'coo-ee' or 'whio-whio,' and churring or gurgling sounds. They were also known for duetting.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusextinct
Geographic RangeEndemic to the North Island of New Zealand, primarily in the southern half, including the Tararua, Ruahine, and Kaimanawa mountain ranges.
Identifying FeaturesExtreme sexual dimorphism in bill shape (male's short, straight; female's long, curved), Glossy black plumage with metallic green sheen, Bright orange wattles at the base of the bill, Broad white band on the tips of the tail feathers, Large size for a passerine
Description
The Huia was a large, striking passerine endemic to New Zealand's North Island, famous for its extreme sexual dimorphism in bill shape. Males had a short, straight, chisel-like bill, while females possessed a long, slender, downward-curving bill. Both sexes had glossy black plumage, prominent orange wattles, and a broad white band on the tail feathers.
