Morepork
NameMorepork
Common NameMorepork
Scientific NameNinox novaeseelandiae
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)52.5
Length (cm)28
Weight (g)220
Plumage DetailsDark brown plumage with pale spots and streaks across the body, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. The underparts are lighter with prominent streaking. It has large, striking bright yellow eyes.
Vocalization / CallIts most famous call is a distinctive, repetitive 'more-pork' or 'ruru'. It also produces a high-pitched, quivering call and various screeches.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to New Zealand (including its main islands and some offshore islands) and Norfolk Island.
Identifying Featureslarge bright yellow eyes, dark brown mottled plumage, distinctive 'more-pork' call, nocturnal activity
Description
The Morepork is a small, dark, mottled owl native to New Zealand and Norfolk Island, known for its large, bright yellow eyes. It is a nocturnal hunter, often heard calling its distinctive 'more-pork' sound at night.
