Conservation Status
Conservation hubFaces a very high risk of extinction in the wild.
The great spotted kiwi faces significant threats from introduced predators like stoats and possums, as well as habitat loss. Conservation efforts include predator control programs and establishing predator-free sanctuaries, which have shown some success in boosting local populations. Responsible safari tourism can help by supporting local conservation initiatives and raising awareness about the importance of protecting this unique flightless bird and its habitat.
The great spotted kiwi, great grey kiwi or roroa is a species of kiwi endemic to the South Island of New Zealand. The great spotted kiwi, as a member of the ratites, is flightless. It is the largest of the kiwi. The rugged topography and harsh climate of the high altitude alpine part of its habitat render it inhospitable to a number of introduced mammalian predators, which include dogs, ferrets, cats, and stoats. Because of this, populations of this species have been less seriously affected by the predations of these invasive species compared to other kiwi. Nonetheless, there has been a 43% decline in population in the past 45 years due to these predators and habitat destruction. This has led it to be classified as vulnerable. There are fewer than 16,000 great spotted kiwis in total, almost all in the more mountainous parts of northwest Nelson, the northwest coast, and the Southern Alps. A minority live on island reserves.
Description adapted from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Where to Find
Top parks for Great Spotted Kiwi. Sightings recorded in 2 safari areas total.
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