Kokako

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The Kōkako (Callaeas cinerea) is a forest bird which is endemic to New Zealand. It is slate-grey with a black mask and wattles. It is one of three New Zealand wattlebirds, the other two being the endangered Tieke (saddleback) and the extinct Huia. Previously widespread, the birds were decimated by the introduction of non-native predators such as possums, stoats, cats, rats and mice. There were two sub-species of Kōkako, although one of these may now be extinct.

Contents

1 North Island Kōkako
2 South Island Kōkako
3 Behaviour
4 Mythology
5 See also
6 External links

North Island Kōkako

The North Island Kōkako, Callaeas cinerea wilsoni, with blue wattles, is endangered, with less than 400 pairs in existence (September 2004). It survives in low numbers in several mainland native forests with the help of government-funded pest control programmes, and captive breeding programmes help maintain population numbers. New populations are being established through releases on predator-free offshore islands. As a result, conservationists are hopeful of the species' long-term survival. As at 2005, the Kōkako has been sighted in Pureora Forest, Whirinaki Forest Park and the Te Urewera National Park. Recently, 20 Kōkako from Urewera were translocated to Ngapukeriki, a forest area under intensive predator control. Kōkako can be seen relatively easily on Tiritiri Matangi Island, where the regenerating forest is low enough to provide close views.

South Island Kōkako

The South Island Kōkako, Callaeas cinerea cinerea, with orange wattles, is thought to be at least functionally extinct (i.e. the species can no longer reproduce because only a few older males may survive). A confirmed sighting has not occurred in several decades, though unconfirmed sightings are very occasionally reported, the most recent being in 2006 in Fiordland. [link]

Behaviour

The Kōkako has a beautiful, clear song that has been likened to organ song. Its call can carry for kilometres. Breeding pairs sing together in a bell-like duet for up to an hour in the early morning. They truly have Te Koha Waiata - the gift of song.

The Kōkako can fly, but it prefers to hop and leap from branch to branch on its powerful grey legs. Its diet consists of leaves, fern fronds, flowers, fruit and invertebrates.

Mythology

Maori myth refers to Kōkako in several stories. In one notable story, Kōkako gave Maui water as he fought the sun by filling its plump wattles with water and offering it to Maui to quench his thirst. Maui rewarded Kōkako for its kindness by stretching its legs until they were lean, long and strong, allowing Kōkako could easily leap through the forest to find food.

External links