Southern Brown Kiwi

Apteryx australis is a brown kiwi of southern New Zealand. It differs from North Island brown kiwi and rowi through genetics, southern range and generally coarser reddish-brown plumage. It is flightless and shaggy, with a long bill and powerful legs. Females are larger and give a lower call than males.

The species occurs in Fiordland and on Stewart Island/Rakiura. It occupies wet forest, scrub, dunes and subalpine vegetation. It probes for worms, insects and other invertebrates and also eats fruit. Unlike most kiwi populations, Rakiura birds are sometimes active in daylight.

The New Zealand classification is Naturally Uncommon. Guided night walks near Oban on Stewart Island offer one of the best wild kiwi experiences.