People

Habitat destruction and kiwi caught in a gin trap

The arrival of humans was one of the most cataclysmic events in the history of kiwi evolution.

Within a few centuries, they have gone from a population of millions to being considered an endangered species. It began with Maori and got much worse when Europeans arrived. And it continues today.

Changing kiwi evolution

The arrival of humans has changed the future evolution of kiwi. Populations have been reduced in size, some have been lost altogether, and the kiwi gene pool has shrunk. This may make the bird less adaptable, and inbreeding is a risk as populations become fragmented and isolated.

However, as remaining populations become more isolated from each other, some of these changes may also create opportunities for different kiwi varieties to evolve.

For example, kiwi in Northland, already cut off from other populations for tens of thousands of years by Auckland’s volcanic activity, are now cut off by the sprawling metropolis of Auckland city. It’s possible that a new variety of brown kiwi may evolve.

Future hope

While things are currently bad for kiwi, they are not bleak. Iwi, communities, businesses and government agencies are working to secure the birds’ future.

Kiwi Sanctuaries

Five Department of Conservation sanctuaries help ensure the survival of kiwi.

Links & Other Resources

Interested in learning more? These other web sites may have what you are looking for.

Kiwi Protection & Info

Find out what you need to know to help protect kiwi.

Did You Know?

Kiwi can get all the water they need from their food – earthworms are 85% water – allowing them to live in dry places. Being nocturnal also helps – they don’t get hot, bothered and dried out by the sun.