Threats to Haast tokoeka
A dead Haast tokoeka chick
There is an estimated population of around 350 Haast tokoeka birds that are fighting for survival due to introduced predators such as stoats and rats.
Stoats
Stoats can travel great distances and enter holes and burrows. Young chicks are vulnerable until they reach about 1 - 1.2 kg in weight, at which time they can usually defend themselves. Chicks are largely independent of their parents from a few weeks of hatching.
Dogs and cats
All dogs, regardless of size, breeding or training, are potential kiwi killers. Dogs find the strong distrinctive scent of kiwi irresistible and easy to track. They can catch and kill kiwi in seconds.
Likewise, uncontrolled, wild or abandoned cats are a big threat to kiwi, especially young chicks.
Motor vehicles
Motor vehicles are a potential threat to Haast tokoeka. If you hit one, do not hit and run! If the bird is injured or dead please take it to your nearest DOC office.