Resurgence of kererū numbers in Tawa reserves

Seeds from many native trees rely on kererū for dispersal. With the extinction the huia and moa, kererū are the only native birds with a wide enough mouth to swallow large fruit. These include fruit of karaka, pūriri, taraire and tawa. The North Island kokako can also consume these fruit but their natural distribution doesContinue reading “Resurgence of kererū numbers in Tawa reserves”

Kākāriki frequently heard and sighted in Redwood Bush

Kākāriki or red-crowned parakeets are one of three species of endemic parakeets found in NZ. The name means ‘small green parrot’ because of their predominantly green plumage. They make a loud rapid chatter in flight and also chatter and babble when feeding. Such sounds have been regularly heard, especially at the north end of RedwoodContinue reading “Kākāriki frequently heard and sighted in Redwood Bush”

What do Kererū eat in Winter?

There is minimal seed and fruit available from native trees in winter. Kererū frequently supplement their diet by consuming tree lucerne and young kowhai leaves which are both high in protein. Also when these plants are flowering, kererū take nectar from flowers. These birds are vital for dispersing the seed of large fruiting trees suchContinue reading “What do Kererū eat in Winter?”