Tragic Incident: Kiwi Found Dead in Wellington Hills Water Trough
In a heartbreaking turn of events, a kiwi from the Capital Kiwi Project, aimed at reintroducing native birds to Wellington’s hills, has been found dead in a water trough. The project, which has been instrumental in releasing 140 kiwis out of the planned 250, faced a devastating loss with the passing of a large female kiwi just before Christmas.
Unfortunate Misadventure
The Capital Kiwi Project took to social media to share the news of the kiwi’s untimely demise, emphasizing that the incident was a result of misadventure and not anyone’s fault. The bird, living not far from its release site, was unmonitored and had come from Rotokare, gifted by Ngāti Tupaia. Despite the tragedy, the project highlighted the importance of responsible pet ownership, road safety around kiwis, and the need for raised water troughs to prevent such accidents in the future.
A Message of Resilience
Acknowledging the loss, Taranaki Whānui chairperson Kara Puketapu-Dentice shared a poignant whakataukī, symbolizing the cycle of life and nature’s resilience. While mourning the kiwi’s passing, the chairperson emphasized the significance of the work being done to secure a future for kiwis in Te Upoko o te Ika a Māui.
Heralding New Life
Amidst the somber news, the Capital Kiwi Project also revealed a ray of hope with the hatching of the first egg from this season’s second batch of chicks. Project lead Paul Ward expressed optimism about the current breeding season, describing it as a ‘bumper season’ for new chicks entering the program. The project’s dedication to the conservation and protection of kiwis remains unwavering, ensuring a bright future for these iconic birds in Wellington’s hills.
The loss of the kiwi serves as a poignant reminder of the fragile balance between nature and human activities, urging everyone to play their part in safeguarding the precious wildlife that call New Zealand home. As we reflect on this tragic incident, let us also celebrate the resilience of nature and the tireless efforts of conservation projects like the Capital Kiwi Project in preserving our natural heritage for generations to come.