Little Spotted Kiwi

Apteryx owenii is the smallest living kiwi. It differs from great spotted kiwi through its much smaller size, finer pale mottling and island-based distribution. The plumage is grey-brown with fine pale spotting, and the bill is relatively short. Females are larger than males but remain compact.

It survives in translocated populations on predator-free islands and at Zealandia in Wellington. Its former mainland range was lost after mammalian predators arrived. It feeds nocturnally on worms, insects and fruit by probing soil and litter. Pairs occupy territories and call after dark.

The New Zealand classification is Nationally Increasing. Zealandia night tours in Wellington and Kapiti Island visits provide realistic opportunities.