About the New Zealand Pigeon
The kererū, also known as kūkupa, New Zealand pigeon or wood pigeon, is a species of pigeon native to New Zealand. Johann Friedrich Gmelin described the bird in 1789 as a large, conspicuous pigeon up to 50 cm (20 in) in length and 550–850 g (19–30 oz) in weight, with a white breast and iridescent green–blue plumage. Two subspecies have been recognised; the second—the Norfolk pigeon of Norfolk Island—became extinct in the early 20th century. Kererū pairs are monogamous, breeding over successive seasons and remaining together when not breeding. They construct nests with twigs in trees, with a single egg clutch.
Source: Wikipedia
Taxonomy & Classification
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Pigeons and Doves (Columbidae) |
| Species | Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae |
| Species Codes | nezpig2, NZPI |
| Conservation | NT Near Threatened |
Frequently Asked Questions
What family does the New Zealand Pigeon belong to?
The New Zealand Pigeon (Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae) belongs to the Pigeons and Doves family (Columbidae), in the order Columbiformes.
What is the conservation status of the New Zealand Pigeon?
The New Zealand Pigeon is classified as "Near Threatened" (NT) by IUCN Red List.
How can I identify the New Zealand Pigeon?
The kererū, also known as kūkupa, New Zealand pigeon or wood pigeon, is a species of pigeon native to New Zealand. Johann Friedrich Gmelin described the bird in 1789 as a large, conspicuous pigeon up to 50 cm (20 in) in length and 550–850 g (19–30 oz) in weight, with a white breast and iridescent gr...
Where can I report a New Zealand Pigeon sighting?
You can log sightings of New Zealand Pigeon on eBird (ebird.org) using species code nezpig2, or on iNaturalist.
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