Hemiphaga chathamensis
The Chatham Islands Pigeon, or Chatham Island Kererū, is a magnificent, large pigeon endemic to the remote Chatham Archipelago of New Zealand. Measuring approximately 55 cm in length and weighing up to 800 g, it boasts a striking iridescent plumage of metallic green, bronze, and purple on its head, back, and wings, contrasting sharply with a pristine white belly and throat. Distinctive field marks include a dark, heavy bill with a red cere, and bright red legs and eyes. Taxonomically, it is c...
Found primarily in broadleaf forests, regenerating forest patches, and coastal scrub, preferring areas with mature trees for foraging and nesting. Exclusively inhabits low elevations across the archipelago.
Strictly herbivorous, primarily consuming a wide variety of fruits (drupes and berries) from native trees and shrubs, but also occasionally feeding on leaves, buds, and flowers.
Chatham Islands Pigeons are largely diurnal, spending their days foraging in the canopy and roosting inconspicuously among dense foliage at night. They employ a rather clumsy, yet effective, foraging strategy, clambering through branches to access fruits, sometimes even hanging upside down to rea...
The Chatham Islands Pigeon is strictly endemic to the Chatham Archipelago, located approximately 800 kilometers east of mainland New Zealand. Historically, it was widespread across all the larger islands in the group, including Chatham, Pitt, Mangere, and Rangatira (South East Island). Following ...
Endangered
- The Chatham Islands Pigeon is the largest native pigeon species in the New Zealand region, an example of 'island gigantism'. - It was once considered extinct on the main Chatham Island for over a century before successful reintroduction efforts. - Its common name, 'Kererū', is a Māori term also...