North Island Brown Kiwi
Image: <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.inaturalist.org/users/57661">Peter de Lange</a> (CC0)
NameNorth Island Brown Kiwi
Common NameNorth Island Brown Kiwi
Scientific NameApteryx mantelli
FamilyApterygidae
Wingspan (cm)0
Length (cm)50
Weight (g)2000
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is shaggy and hair-like, typically dark brown to reddish-brown, often with streaking or mottling that provides camouflage in its forest habitat. It lacks a visible tail.
Vocalization / CallMales emit a high-pitched, ascending whistle, often described as 'kiwi-kiwi', while females produce a hoarse, lower-pitched 'kurr-kurr' call. These calls are primarily used for territorial defense and communication between pairs.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, scrubland, grassland
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to the North Island of New Zealand, found in various forested and scrubland areas, often in protected reserves and offshore islands.
Identifying FeaturesFlightless, Long, flexible bill with nostrils at the tip, Shaggy, brown, hair-like plumage, Nocturnal, Strong legs and feet, No visible tail
Description
The North Island Brown Kiwi is a flightless, nocturnal bird endemic to New Zealand, characterized by its long, flexible bill with nostrils at the tip and shaggy, hair-like plumage. It uses its keen sense of smell to forage for invertebrates in the forest floor.
