Prior to the arrival of humans (less than 1000 years ago) New Zealand had no land mammals (except 2 species of bat). Instead its land was inhabited by a small but remarkably diverse bird fauna. For the most part these New Zealand forest birds are endemic, that is they are peculiar to New Zealand. Unfortunately many remarkable species, moas, giant (Haast) eagle and others are now extinct, most probably exterminated by humans in the last few hundred years. Several other species are endangered, and often owe their survival only to offshore island sanctuaries or 'mainland islands', which are, when visiting is not restricted, destinations of outstanding interest for sightseers. Among the remaining species the kiwi is truly a remarkable, unique bird. Its nocturnal habits make it near impossible to see in the wild, apart from Stewart Island, but it is commonly heard. The kea, a mountain parrot, is also remarkable and can easily be seen at specific locations. Other birds that can be seen easily enough in the wild include New Zealand pigeons, tuis, bellbirds, and the smaller fantails, tomtits, and grey warblers. The New Zealand forest birds are also remarkable for their singing, especially tuis, bellbirds and kokakos. Where their numbers are high the experience of their singing, especially the much-vaunted 'dawn chorus', is a magical moment that brings to mind and memory the not-so-old times when the primaeval forests of New Zealand were their unchallenged domain.

Learn more about Natural history/the Forest birds of New Zealand.