Kererū New Zealand Pigeon Breed Guide

Kererū, also known as the New Zealand pigeon, is a distinctive and unique bird species in New Zealand, with a large greenish-yellow and white coloration.

These birds primarily feed on fruits and leaves and are essential for seed dispersal in New Zealand’s forests. They are gentle birds, easily approachable, and an absolute joy to observe in the wild.

This guide will explore the fascinating world of kereru and provide everything you need to know about this amazing bird species. Let’s dive in and learn more about the kererū New Zealand pigeon breed.

Appearance and Characteristics of the Kererū New Zealand Pigeon

The Kererū Pigeon or Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae, is a distinctive and colorful bird native to New Zealand. Here are the key features of its appearance:

Size

• Kererū are relatively large pigeons, measuring about 45-51 cm (18-20 inches) in length.

Coloration

• Head and Neck: The head and neck of the Kererū are typically a metallic green or purple-green, often with iridescent hues.
• Body: The upper parts, including the wings and back, are predominantly greenish-bronze. The breast and underparts are usually white.
• Iris: The eyes are surrounded by a striking white eye-ring, making them easily noticeable.
• Bill and Feet: The bill is pale, and the legs and feet are red.

3Distinctive Features

• One of the most noticeable features of the Kererū is its white, crescent-shaped band on the underside of the wings, visible in flight.
• They have a relatively broad body, giving them a robust appearance.
• Kererū produces a distinctive sound during flight, often described as a “whooshing” sound due to the wing beats.

Behavioral Traits of The Breed

Besides their physical attributes, kereru New Zealand pigeons also have unique behavioral traits.

• These pigeons have a unique flight pattern, flapping their wings loudly and heavily and later making a distinctive swooping sound through the air.
• Kereru pigeons are endemic to New Zealand and can be found in habitats ranging from wetlands to urban gardens. They are known to nest in large tree branches, especially where the canopy is thick and near the fruiting trees.
• Kereru pigeons feed on native trees’ fruits, including karaka berries, miro berries, and puriri fruit. They are vital seed dispersers for many trees and flora in their habitats.

Kererū New Zealand Pigeon Care Guide

Caring for a Kererū, or New Zealand Pigeon, requires understanding and providing for its specific needs. Here’s a care guide to ensure the well-being of these unique birds:

Housing

• Large Aviary: Provide a spacious aviary or enclosure. Kererū are relatively large birds and need room to move around comfortably.
• Outdoor Access: If possible, allow them access to an outdoor aviary where they can experience natural sunlight, fresh air, and observe their surroundings.

Diet

• Natural Foods: Offer a diet rich in native New Zealand plants. Kererū are herbivores and primarily feed on leaves, flowers, fruits, and berries of native trees and plants.
• Supplementation: If native plants are scarce, supplement their diet with fruits like berries, grapes, and chopped apples. Ensure a variety of foods to meet their nutritional needs.
• Fresh Water: Always provide clean and fresh water for drinking and bathing.

Enrichment

• Natural Elements: Include branches, perches, and platforms in their enclosure to mimic their natural environment.
• Foraging Opportunities: Hide food items in different areas of the enclosure to encourage foraging, stimulating their natural hunting instincts.
• Companionship: If possible, house Kererū in pairs or small groups, as they are social birds and benefit from companionship.

Health Care

• Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular health check-ups with an avian veterinarian experienced in caring for pigeons.

Environmental Conditions

• Temperature: Ensure the enclosure maintains a comfortable temperature. Kererū are adapted to New Zealand’s climate and need protection from extreme heat or cold.
• Protection: Provide shelter from rain, strong winds, and direct sunlight.

Observation and Interaction

• Observation: Regularly observe their behavior. Changes in eating habits, activity levels, or appearance can indicate health issues.
• Interaction: While Kererū are wild birds, gentle and non-intrusive observation can help you understand their natural behaviors.

Conservation and Legal Considerations

• Conservation: Kererū is a protected species in New Zealand. Be aware of conservation efforts and legal regulations related to their protection.
• Educational Outreach: If you’re keeping Kererū as part of a conservation or educational program, share their importance in the ecosystem with others.

Health and Disease Management of Kererū New Zealand Pigeon

Maintaining the health and well-being of Kererū, or New Zealand Pigeons, involves proper care, preventive measures, and prompt attention to any signs of illness. Here’s a guide for health management and disease prevention:

Regular Health Checks

• Schedule regular health check-ups with an avian veterinarian experienced in treating pigeons.
• Monitor the birds for changes in behavior, appetite, droppings, and physical appearance. Any unusual signs should be investigated promptly.

Disease Prevention

• Quarantine New Birds: If introducing new Kererū into your aviary, quarantine them for at least 30 days to prevent the spread of diseases.
• Hygiene: Maintain a clean environment. Regularly clean and disinfect the aviary, perches, and feeding/watering containers.
• Limit Human Interaction: Minimize contact with wild birds and other animals that might carry diseases.
• Biosecurity Measures: Limit access to your aviary and have visitors follow hygiene protocols, including handwashing and wearing dedicated clothing/shoes.

Parasite Control

• Regular Checks: Monitor for external parasites like mites and lice. Treat promptly if detected.
• Internal Parasites: Follow a veterinarian’s advice on deworming protocols.

Vaccinations

• Work with your vet to develop a vaccination schedule, if applicable, based on the prevalent diseases in your region.

Stress Reduction

• Provide Enrichment: Offer natural elements, perches, and hiding spots in the aviary to reduce stress.
• Minimize Disturbances: Limit noise and disturbances to provide a calm environment.

The Breeding Process of Kererū New Zealand Pigeon

Breeding Kererū Pigeons is a complex process that primarily occurs in the wild. These birds are not typically kept in captivity for breeding purposes due to their protected status and the importance of preserving their populations in the wild.

However, understanding their natural breeding behaviors can contribute to conservation efforts. Here’s an overview of the general breeding process of Kererū in their natural habitat:

Courtship and Pair Formation

• During the breeding season, which typically occurs from September to April in New Zealand, Kererū engages in courtship behaviors.
• Males often display their iridescent plumage and make cooing sounds to attract females.
• Pairs form, and the male and female engage in mutual preening and other bonding activities.

Nesting

• Kererū constructs nests using twigs and branches. The nests are typically situated in the fork of a tree or on a sturdy horizontal branch.
• The female usually lays one egg, although occasionally, two eggs are laid.
• Both the male and female participate in incubating the eggs, which lasts for about 28 days.

Incubation and Chick Rearing

• After hatching, both parents take turns incubating the chick and providing it with warmth and protection.
• The chick is fed a diet of regurgitated food, which consists of partially digested plant matter.
• The chick stays in the nest for several weeks, during which it grows rapidly.

Fledging

• Once the chick is sufficiently developed, it fledges, leaving the nest and learning to fly. This usually occurs around 30-45 days after hatching.
• The parents continue to provide food and guidance to the fledgling until it becomes fully independent.

Parental Care

• Kererū parents are highly attentive to their offspring, ensuring they are well-fed and protected from predators.
• The parents teach the young birds essential skills for survival, such as foraging and recognizing suitable food sources.

Conclusion

The kereru pigeon is a fascinating and beautiful breed, which plays a significant role in the New Zealand eco-system. This bird’s unique features and characteristics make it a popular research subject among ornithologists globally.

From its distinct appearance to its feeding habits and territorial behavior, this bird is an icon of New Zealand’s conservation efforts.

This comprehensive guide shows how the kereru has evolved over the years, where it is found, and how we can contribute to its survival. By conserving and protecting this species, we not only ensure a healthy ecosystem but also appreciate nature’s beauty and diversity.

As visitors explore the beautiful landscapes of new zealand, being able to witness this majestic bird in its natural habitat is truly a sight to behold- one that everyone should experience at least once.