Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae
The New Zealand Pigeon, known to Māori as Kererū, Kūkū, or Kuku, is a large, stately arboreal pigeon endemic to New Zealand. This strikingly beautiful bird boasts a vibrant, iridescent plumage, predominantly green and bronze on its head, back, and wings, shimmering with purple and copper hues, sharply contrasting with its pristine white breast. Its large size, typically measuring 51-55 cm in length and weighing 550-850g, along with its red bill with a pale tip and reddish legs, make it instan...
Found across a variety of forested habitats, from primary native forests and regenerating bush to urban parks and gardens where suitable fruiting trees are present, from sea level to montane regions.
Primarily frugivorous, consuming a wide range of native and introduced fruits, but also feeding on leaves, buds, and flowers, particularly when fruit is scarce.
Kererū are diurnal and predominantly arboreal, spending most of their time foraging in the canopy, though they will occasionally feed on fallen fruit. Their foraging strategy involves carefully selecting and swallowing whole fruits, often hanging upside down to reach them, making them crucial for...
The New Zealand Pigeon (*Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae*) is endemic and resident throughout the three main islands of New Zealand - North Island, South Island, and Stewart Island - as well as numerous smaller offshore islands. It is a non-migratory species, with individuals typically remaining within...
Near Threatened
- The Kererū is the largest native pigeon in New Zealand, often weighing over half a kilogram and capable of swallowing very large fruits whole. - It is the sole remaining endemic pigeon species in New Zealand, making it irreplaceable for seed dispersal of many native trees. - Kererū are famously...