Morepork Ninox novaeseelandiae

Small endemic owl widespread throughout forested areas, both native and exotic, of New Zealand. Uncommon in drier eastern areas. Nocturnal and roosts during day in dense vegetation, particularly in tree ferns. Small birds mobbing them as they roost can give away their day-time location. Mostly heard at night via their distinct double hoot call of 'more-pork'. Other calls are a monotonous 'more' or a rising 'quee' call, often given whilst hunting. Minimal overlap with introduced Little Owl, but differentiated by darker colouration, larger head, as well as longer tail. Note, rising 'quee' call can be mistaken for kiwi calls.