For millions of years, millions of kiwi had thrived all over New Zealand. Then, in a matter of centuries, they became an endangered species. Most taxa are still declining today.
It began with Maori, and got much worse when Europeans arrived. And it continues today.
Kiwi Evolution
The arrival of humans has dramatically affected the future evolution of kiwi. Populations have been diminished, some lost altogether, and the kiwi gene pool has shrunk. This may make the bird less adaptable and inbreeding is now a real risk as populations become fragmented and isolated.
However, some of these changes also bring opportunities for different varieties to evolve in their new-found isolation. For example, the Northland birds, already separated for tens of thousands of years from other populations by volcanic activity in the Auckland area, will remain isolated by the sprawling metropolis of Auckland city, and a new variety of Brown Kiwi may evolve.
Future Hope
While things are bad for kiwi, the future is not bleak. Iwi, communities, businesses and government agencies are working in many ways to secure its future. To find out what others are doing, and what you can do, visit:
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