New Zealand pigeon
kererū · Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae
Commonly seen in fruiting trees island-wide, often perched in the open on treetops.
Story
Kererū numbers on Kawau rose in the 1990s as possums were brought under control. Today they are one of the island's most often seen native birds.
Behaviour
Big, iridescent green pigeons with a white vest. In spring the males perform display flights, climbing steeply, stalling, then gliding down. Their heavy wingbeats make a loud whoosh.
There’s more about this bird on Kawau in the island’s history.