South Island Takahē

Porphyrio hochstetteri, the takahē, is a massive flightless rail endemic to New Zealand. It differs from pūkeko through its larger bulk, reduced wings and deep triangular red bill. Adults are cobalt blue and olive green with thick red legs and a broad red shield. The short tail exposes a white undertail.

A wild population survives in the Murchison Mountains of Fiordland, supplemented by managed populations on predator-free islands and fenced sanctuaries. It uses alpine tussock naturally and grassland at many release sites. Takahē strip nutritious leaf bases from tussocks and also graze grasses. Pairs hold territories and usually rear one or two chicks with intensive management support.

The New Zealand classification is Nationally Vulnerable. Tiritiri Matangi, Zealandia and Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari offer managed, publicly accessible viewing.