Apteryx australis Shaw, 1813

Gland and Feather Morphology

This species lacks a preen gland. Its feathers have no aftershafts and no barbules.

Facial and Skeletal Features

Large vibrissae are present around its gape, and it has no tail, with only a pygostyle present.

Size and Weight

It reaches a total length of 45 to 55 cm (18–22 in); females weigh 2.1 to 3.9 kg (4.6–8.6 lb), while males weigh 1.6 to 2.8 kg (3.5–6.2 lb).

Bill Structure

Its bill is long and slender, with a slight downward curve.

Activity Pattern

Like other kiwis, this species is nocturnal.

Plumage Coloration

Its plumage is rufous in color with some streaking.

Overall Distribution

Southern brown kiwi (Apteryx australis) inhabit the South Island and Stewart Island of New Zealand.

South Island Range

On the South Island mainland, they are found in Fiordland and Westland.

General Habitat Preferences

They occupy temperate and sub-tropical forests, grassland, and shrubland, preferring denser vegetation.

Stewart Island Habitat

They are widespread across Stewart Island, where they also live on sand dunes.

Reproductive Anatomy

Like all kiwi, the southern brown kiwi has two functioning ovaries, but only the left oviduct is functional, which lets eggs from both ovaries pass through.

Mating System

It is a monogamous species.

Territorial Defense

Once paired, the couple defends their territory using warning calls.

Territory Size

Their territories range in size from 4.9 to 43 hectares (12 to 106 acres).

Nesting Sites

Nests are built in burrows, or in sheltered spots under thick vegetation.

Egg Laying and Incubation

The female lays 1 to 2 eggs, most often just one egg, which the male incubates for 90 days.

Chick Development

A few days after hatching, the chick will leave the nest to feed on its own, though it may remain near its parents for up to a year.

Adult Roosting Behavior

When not incubating eggs, adult southern brown kiwi roost alone in sheltered spots at ground level.