Threats to Kiwi

Kiwi chicks are vulnerable to predators such as stoats, ferrets, weasels, rats, possums, dogs and domestic and feral cats. Stoats are the greatest threat to kiwi chicks and dogs are the greatest threat to adult kiwi.

An adult kiwi killed by a dog

The Whakatane Kiwi Trust with the Whakatane Kiwi Project, work to reduce threats to kiwi during all stages of their lives. Our kiwi need your help to thrive and prosper.

Mustelids are trapped in and around significant kiwi populations

In most unmanaged areas, almost all kiwi chicks are killed within the first six months of hatching - and almost half of those are killed by stoats.

The adult kiwi is protected from predation by its size, its aggressive feisty nature and its strong legs and sharp claws but they are no match for dogs and may also fall prey to ferrets and cats.

Kiwi compete with possums and rats for food on the forest floor and often die as a result of being caught in traps laid on the ground to kill possums.

The eggs of kiwi are sometimes eaten or disturbed by pigs, dogs and possums.

Without active management to minimise predators, kiwi will eventually disappear from the Whakatane district.