Wildlife

Wild Kiwi Conservation and Predator Control

New Zealand kiwi face predation from stoats, rats, and possums, and predator control programs are essential for kiwi population welfare.

Key Facts

Kiwi are flightless nocturnal birds that evolved without mammalian predators
Without protection, 95% of kiwi chicks die before reaching adulthood
1080 aerial drops in pest control zones dramatically improve kiwi chick survival
Mainland predator-free islands provide refugia with excellent welfare outcomes

Welfare Considerations

Kiwi welfare depends on protection from introduced predators that they have no evolved defenses against. Predator control enables natural kiwi behaviors and reproduction. Birds in unprotected areas face chronic predation pressure that limits population recovery.

What You Can Do

Support New Zealand predator control programs including aerial 1080 applications
Donate to kiwi sanctuary and breeding programs
Advocate for predator-free islands and mainland sanctuaries
Follow kiwi population recovery research and celebrate conservation successes