The endemic tomtit is one of the common forest birds found throughout New Zealand. Here are 8 facts about the tomtit, including identification tips and the 5 subspecies. I’m thrilled any time that I’m out on a walk in the bush and happen to see…
Category: Animals
nature facts about the animals of new zealand, birds, reptiles, mammals, and more.
The Whio or Blue Duck is one of New Zealand’s fascinating endemic birds. Here are 6 facts about this bird that can only be found in rivers or streams. New Zealand’s most iconic bird may be the kiwi, but the country is full of many…
Scale insects form the basis of an ecosystem in the native beech forests of New Zealand. Here is an explanation of this ecosystem and how introduced wasps are changing it. This sounds like it could be the title of some horror movie – scale insects,…
Sandfly bites can be super, super annoying and even quite painful. Here are the ultimate tips to prevent sandfly bites when exploring New Zealand. In New Zealand sandflies are simply part of life if you enjoy exploring the great outdoors. Similar to most amazing natural…
New Zealand is home to beaches, volcanoes, and endemic wildlife, including birds. Here are 3 penguins that live and breed on the main islands of New Zealand. The more I learn about the natural world of New Zealand, the more I’m amazed by it. I’ve…
New Zealand’s geckos comprise a unique and special group of animals. Here are 8 cool facts about these cute, elusive, and seldom seen animals. Before moving to New Zealand I didn’t know much about the natural world here. I had heard stories of beautiful landscapes,…
Introduced species can be a serious problem anywhere, but especially on islands. Here is a definition of introduced species, and why they can be problematic. I have lived in various parts of the USA, Madagascar, and now New Zealand. It seems like everywhere I’ve lived…
New Zealand’s 3 native gulls can be found all across the country in differing frequencies. These are the only native gulls that breed in New Zealand. I am fortunate enough to live close to the beautiful beaches of Taranaki on the North Island. Any time…
The Native ‘K’ birds of New Zealand are pretty amazing. Here are 6 native birds of New Zealand that start with the letter K, including kiwi and kokako. New Zealand has and had some pretty unique and amazing birds. Since these islands were isolated for…
It’s that time of year when the Great Kereru count is happening. This is a chance for citizen scientists to participate by recording their observations of Kereru. I remember about this time last year when I first heard of the Great Kereru count. I thought…