Kiwi Conservation

There are five recognized species of Kiwi bird and all are considered endangered due to the historically adverse effects of deforestation and current predation by invasive mammalian predators. The rate of decline for Kiwi populations that are not a part of a conservation program is 2 - 3% a year. Every year. This means that although there were approximately 72,600 Kiwi living in the wild in 2008, in 2018 there will be only 63,500.

Fortunately, there are many conservation efforts currently in place that aim to bring Kiwi population levels up to more satisfactory and stable numbers. However, it is important that the public both participates in and cooperates with these conservation efforts in order to ensure this wonderful bird's continued existence on this planet. Below you will find information on several ongoing Kiwi conservation projects as well as links for further information and opportunities to lend your support. 


The New Zealand Conservation Trust Kiwi Breeding Program:


The New Zealand Conservation Trust is currently involved in breeding multiple Kiwi species and boasts the most successful captive Kiwi breeding program in the world. According to studies done by this organization 88% of Kiwi chicks born in the wild die within the first 100 days of hatching. This number is due solely to predation, and does not begin to account for habitat loss, insufficient food supply, or human interactions. Stoats are known to kill the most Kiwi hatch-lings, but many predators play a role in the low survival rates of Kiwi chicks. The estimated mortality rate for South Island Kiwi's is an alarming 95%. In order to counteract these devastating statistics this organization is involved in hatching intervention and early life Kiwi care to ensure that a larger number of Kiwi's are surviving to their reproductive life stage. 


Click here to visit the New Zealand Conservation Trust Kiwi Breeding Program page and see what you can do to help. 


BNZ Save The Kiwi:


BNZ Save the Kiwi is a partnership between BNZ, The Department of Conservation, and the Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society. This partnership develops and funds many Kiwi conservation projects and offers easy ways for the public to help. From spending $1 to feed 1 kiwi chick for a week to spending $1,200 to support the first year of year of life for one BNZ Operation Nest Egg Chick, there are numerous ways to get involved with Kiwi conservation. 


Click here to visit the BNZ Save The Kiwi website and check out all of the amazing volunteer and support opportunities available.