© Oscar Thomas
© Angus Wilson
© Fabio Olmos
© Daniele Mitchell

North Island Kokako Callaeas wilsoni

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Identification

POWERED BY MERLIN

Large songbird confined to a few scattered forests in the northern half of the North Island of New Zealand, and some offshore island sanctuaries where predator control is undertaken. Adults have a slate blue-gray body with vibrant cerulean wattles and a distinct black mask. Juvenile has smaller, pale pink wattles and a smaller face mask. Note the long downcurved tail and long legs, which help them bound around treetops with small wing flaps. Prefers not to fly but can glide for a few hundred meters when needed. Heard before seen at dawn; its unique, haunting song is composed of rich, sustained, organ-like notes. Often sings from a high perch and flaps its wings as it calls.

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