Approximately 68,000 Kiwi Birds Left in 2024

As of 2024, it is estimated that approximately 68,000 kiwi birds remain in the wild across New Zealand. This number reflects a gradual improvement for some subspecies due to intensive conservation efforts, though several types of kiwi are still classified as endangered or vulnerable. Understanding how many kiwi birds are left requires examining not just overall population figures but also species-specific trends, habitat conditions, and the ongoing threats posed by invasive predators such as stoats, dogs, and cats. The question 'how many kiwi birds are left' is increasingly relevant as New Zealand pushes forward with its Kiwi Recovery Programme, aiming to stabilize and grow populations through predator control, breeding programs, and community-led initiatives.

The Five Species of Kiwi and Their Current Status

Kiwi (genus Apteryx) are flightless birds endemic to New Zealand and represent one of the country’s most iconic national symbols. There are five recognized species of kiwi, each with distinct ranges, behaviors, and conservation statuses:

• North Island brown kiwi (Apteryx mantelli) – Most numerous, with around 35,000 individuals remaining.
• Great spotted kiwi (Apteryx haastii) – Approximately 16,000 left, primarily in the South Island’s mountainous regions.
• Little spotted kiwi (Apteryx owenii) – Once nearly extinct, now numbering around 1,700, all descended from just five birds translocated to Kapiti Island in the 1920s.
• Okarito brown kiwi (Apteryx rowi) – One of the rarest, with only about 600 individuals, mostly in the Okarito Forest near Franz Josef Glacier.
• Haast brown kiwi (Apteryx meinertzhagenae) – Critically endangered, with fewer than 400 birds surviving in a remote part of the South Island.

These numbers highlight why asking 'how many kiwi birds are left in 2024' leads to nuanced answers—some populations are stable or increasing, while others remain perilously low.

Historical Decline and Conservation Milestones

Prior to human arrival in New Zealand around 700 years ago, kiwi were abundant, with estimates suggesting populations may have exceeded several million. However, deforestation and the introduction of mammalian predators—including rats, stoats, ferrets, and domestic dogs—led to dramatic declines. By the late 20th century, kiwi populations were dropping by 2% annually, equating to roughly two birds lost every day.

In response, the New Zealand Department of Conservation (DOC) launched the Kiwi Recovery Programme in 1991. This initiative marked a turning point, combining scientific research, predator control, and public engagement. A key component was Operation Nest Egg, which involves removing eggs or chicks from the wild, raising them in predator-free environments until they reach a safe weight (around 1 kg), then releasing them back into protected areas. This method has significantly increased juvenile survival rates—from less than 5% in high-predation zones to over 65% when using Operation Nest Egg.

Current Threats to Kiwi Survival

Despite progress, kiwi continue to face serious threats:

• Invasive predators: Stoats are responsible for an estimated 95% of kiwi chick deaths in unmanaged forests.
• Habitat loss: Urban expansion, agriculture, and logging reduce available forest cover, fragmenting populations.
• Dog attacks: Even well-trained dogs can injure or kill kiwi; incidents occur most frequently near forest edges and walking tracks.
• Climate change: Alters temperature and rainfall patterns, potentially affecting food availability and nesting success.

Understanding how many kiwi birds are left means recognizing that population recovery is fragile and dependent on sustained intervention. Without active management, even currently stable populations could decline rapidly.

Where Are Kiwi Found Today?

Kiwi distribution varies widely by species:

• North Island brown kiwi inhabit forests from Northland to Wellington, including areas like Pureora Forest and Tongariro National Park.
• Great spotted kiwi live in alpine and subalpine forests of northwest Nelson, Arthur's Pass, and Fiordland.
• Little spotted kiwi exist only on offshore predator-free islands such as Kapiti, Red Mercury, and Tiritiri Matangi.
• Rowi are confined to the Okarito Forest and nearby sanctuaries like Ngā Motu Sea Caves.
• Haast brown kiwi occupy a small range in the Haast Range, accessible only by helicopter or multi-day tramps.

In addition to wild populations, many kiwi live in managed sanctuaries and zoos, both within New Zealand and abroad. These facilities play vital roles in education, breeding, and genetic preservation.

Conservation Success Stories and Ongoing Projects

Several projects demonstrate that targeted conservation can reverse declines:

• Project Kākāriki on Kapiti Island has maintained a thriving little spotted kiwi population since the 1920s.
• Rotokauri Sanctuary near Auckland uses electric fencing and intensive trapping to create a mainland island ecosystem where kiwi can breed safely.
• Save the Kiwi, a partnership between DOC, iwi (Māori tribes), and NGOs, aims to double the population of rowi and other threatened species by 2030.
• Community trapping networks involving thousands of volunteers help protect local kiwi populations across rural regions.

One notable achievement occurred in 2023 when the rowi population surpassed 600 birds for the first time in decades—a milestone celebrated nationwide. Such successes show that answering 'how many kiwi birds are left' isn't just about counting, but about measuring hope and resilience.

How Scientists Count Kiwi Birds

Estimating kiwi populations is challenging due to their nocturnal, solitary, and cryptic nature. Researchers use several methods:

• Aural surveys: Listening for male calls during spring and autumn nights. Each bird has a unique call pattern, allowing identification.
• Radio tracking: Attaching small transmitters to birds to monitor movements and survival.
• Footprint tunnels: Ink-based devices that record footprints, indicating presence and density.
• Genetic sampling: Analyzing feathers or scat to determine species, sex, and relatedness.

Data from these techniques are combined into population models used by DOC and regional councils. While precise counts are impossible, trends can be reliably assessed over time.

Kiwi Species	Estimated Population (2024)	Conservation Status (NZTCS)	Main Threats
North Island brown kiwi	~35,000	At Risk - Declining	Stoats, dogs, habitat loss
Great spotted kiwi	~16,000	At Risk - Relict	Possums, hunting, terrain access
Little spotted kiwi	~1,700	At Risk - Recovering	Low genetic diversity
Okarito brown kiwi (rowi)	~600	Threatened - Nationally Vulnerable	Stoats, limited range
Haast brown kiwi	<400	Threatened - Nationally Critical	Very small population, isolation

Cultural Significance of the Kiwi in Māori Tradition

Beyond biology, the kiwi holds deep cultural significance for Māori, the indigenous people of New Zealand. In traditional beliefs, the kiwi is seen as a guardian of the forest (te manuhiri o te wao). Some iwi consider the bird a descendant of Tane Mahuta, the god of forests and birds. Hunting kiwi was historically forbidden (tapu) in many tribes, reflecting respect for its spiritual role.

Today, many conservation projects involve Māori leadership and incorporate traditional ecological knowledge. For example, the kaitiakitanga (guardianship) model emphasizes long-term stewardship rather than short-term gains. This holistic approach strengthens both cultural identity and environmental outcomes.

How You Can Help Protect Kiwi Birds

Individuals can contribute to kiwi conservation in meaningful ways:

• Keep dogs under control: Always leash your dog in kiwi habitats and educate others about risks.
• Support predator-free initiatives: Donate to organizations like Kiwis for kiwi or volunteer for local trap lines.
• Visit conservation sites responsibly: Follow track rules, stay on paths, and report sightings via apps like iNaturalist.
• Educate communities: Share facts about kiwi ecology and threats with schools or neighborhood groups.
• Advocate for policy change: Support government funding for biodiversity protection and advocate for stronger pet regulations near reserves.

Even small actions add up. Knowing how many kiwi birds are left should inspire action—not despair.

Common Misconceptions About Kiwi Birds

Several myths persist about kiwi, which can hinder accurate understanding:

• Myth: Kiwi are mammals because they lay eggs and have hair-like feathers. Reality: They are birds, albeit highly specialized ones. All birds lay eggs, and kiwi feathers resemble fur due to evolutionary adaptation.
• Myth: Kiwi are common everywhere in New Zealand. Reality: Most New Zealanders will never see a wild kiwi due to their nocturnal habits and declining numbers.
• Myth: Captive breeding alone can save kiwi. Reality: While helpful, long-term survival depends on restoring predator-controlled or predator-free habitats.
• Myth: Kiwi are slow breeders with no chance of recovery. Reality: With proper protection, females can lay 1–2 eggs per year, and juveniles mature in 3–5 years—fast enough for populations to rebound.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many kiwi birds are left in 2024?

Approximately 68,000 kiwi birds remain in the wild, distributed among five species, with varying levels of endangerment.

Is the kiwi bird population increasing or decreasing?

Overall, the trend is cautiously positive due to conservation efforts, though some species like the Haast brown kiwi remain critically endangered.

Why are kiwi birds endangered?

Primary causes include predation by introduced mammals (especially stoats and dogs), habitat destruction, and low reproductive survival in unprotected areas.

Can you see a kiwi bird in the wild?

It's possible but rare. Best chances are on guided night tours in protected areas like Zealandia or Stewart Island.

What is being done to protect kiwi birds?

Efforts include predator control, Operation Nest Egg, community trapping, habitat restoration, and legal protections under New Zealand’s Wildlife Act.