The kiwi is a flightless bird native to New Zealand. Though it is only about the size of a domestic chicken, it is related to ostriches, emus, rheas, and the cassowary. There are five species of kiwi, two of which, are currently Vulnerable, one of which is Endangered, and one of which is Critically Endangered. All are primarily due to habitat loss. The remaining forests are well protected, so now their greatest threat is predation by invasive mammals. The kiwi diet consists of small invertebrates, seeds, grubs, and many varieties of worms. They may also eat fruit, small crayfish, eels, and amphibians if the opportunity presents itself. They generally mate for life, forming monogamous pairs. The female weighs a single egg, which is about one quarter of her body weight. A few days before she lays her egg, the sheer size of the egg fills up most of her belly and so she is forced to fast. Once the egg has been laid, the male is the one who incubates it.

The kiwi is New Zealand’s national symbol and has become the term they use when referring to New Zealanders.