The Black Stilt

Kaki/black stilt (Himantopus novaezelandiae) are one of the world's rarest and most endangered birds. Once widespread and common in many parts of New Zealand, kaki are now restricted to the Mackenzie Basin, South Canterbury. It is believed that their decline was caused mainly by the introduction of mammalian predators (e.g. ferrets, feral cats) and habitat modification following European colonisation.

Adult kaki look very distinctive with their completely black plumage, long red legs and fine black bill. Young kaki go through various black and white phases before becoming fully black at around 18 months. Kaki live in braided rivers and wetlands, feeding on aquatic invertebrates, small fish and molluscs. Kaki are the only river bird to remain in the Mackenzie Basin throughout the year.
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