Mount Aspiring National Park

Birds

Mount Aspiring National Park is home to a remarkable variety of native bird species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world. From alpine parrots to rare forest dwellers, these birds contribute to the park’s rich biodiversity.

Takahē (Porphyrio hochstetteri)
Once thought extinct, the takahē is a large, flightless bird with striking blue and green plumage. Found in remote alpine grasslands, this rare species is part of ongoing conservation efforts to boost its population.

Kākā (Nestor meridionalis)
A close relative of the kea, the kākā is a forest parrot known for its vibrant plumage and loud, raucous calls. It is mainly active in the early morning and evening, feeding on nectar, fruits, and insects.

Rifleman (Acanthisitta chloris)
New Zealand’s smallest bird, the rifleman, is an active and fast-moving species that flits through the forest canopy in search of insects. Its high-pitched calls and rapid wingbeats make it a fascinating bird to observe.

Blue Duck (Hymenolaimus malacorhynchos)
Also known as whio, the blue duck is a rare and specialized river-dwelling bird that thrives in fast-flowing mountain streams. Its unique, rubbery bill helps it feed on aquatic invertebrates.

Morepork (Ninox novaeseelandiae)
This small, nocturnal owl is named after its distinctive “more-pork” call. It is a silent hunter of insects and small mammals, often seen perching in forested areas at dusk.

South Island Robin (Petroica australis)
A curious and friendly bird, the South Island robin often approaches hikers, hoping to find insects disturbed by their footsteps. It has a distinctive black-and-white plumage and a strong, melodious song.

Yellowhead (Mohoua ochrocephala)
This small, bright yellow forest bird is an important indicator of forest health. It lives in mixed beech forests, where it feeds on insects and forms noisy, social groups.

Paradise Shelduck (Tadorna variegata)
A striking and colorful waterfowl species, the paradise shelduck is commonly found in open grasslands and wetlands. The males have dark plumage, while the females have bright white heads and chestnut bodies.

Tomtit (Petroica macrocephala)
This small insectivorous bird has a distinctive black-and-white or yellowish coloring, depending on its subspecies. It is known for its bold behavior and can often be seen perching low in the forest.

Kererū (Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae)
A large, native wood pigeon with iridescent green and white plumage, the kererū plays a crucial role in seed dispersal. Its slow, heavy flight is a common sight in forested areas of the park.

Tahr (Hemitragus jemlahicus)
Originally from the Himalayas, tahr were introduced to New Zealand in the early 1900s and have since established populations in the alpine regions of Mount Aspiring National Park. These sturdy, goat-like animals have thick reddish-brown coats and curved horns, making them well-adapted to steep mountainous terrain.

Chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra)
Another introduced species, the chamois, is a nimble and agile antelope-like animal native to Europe. It thrives in the park’s rugged, high-altitude landscapes and can often be seen bounding across rocky slopes.

New Zealand Long-tailed Bat (Chalinolobus tuberculatus)
One of only two native land mammals in New Zealand, the long-tailed bat is a rare and nocturnal species found in forested areas of the park. These tiny bats use echolocation to navigate and hunt for insects at night.

Southern Alps Gecko (Woodworthia “Southern Alps”)
This small, nocturnal gecko is native to the alpine regions of the South Island. It has excellent camouflage, blending into rock surfaces, and can survive extreme temperatures.

Kea (Nestor notabilis)
Though classified as a parrot, the kea deserves a mention for its unique behavior. Known as one of the world’s most intelligent birds, this alpine parrot is highly curious and often interacts with visitors. It is famous for its mischievous nature, sometimes dismantling cars and tents.

New Zealand Falcon (Falco novaeseelandiae)
A powerful predator, the New Zealand falcon is a fast and agile bird of prey that can be found hunting small mammals and birds throughout the park’s forests and open areas.

South Island Kōura (Paranephrops zealandicus)
These freshwater crayfish inhabit the park’s rivers and lakes, playing an important role in the ecosystem by keeping waterways clean and providing food for other species.

Southern Bell Frog (Ranoidea raniformis)
This introduced frog species thrives in wetland areas of the park. It has a distinctive green and bronze coloration and is known for its loud, bell-like calls.

Alpine Wētā (Hemideina maori)
One of New Zealand’s most resilient insects, the alpine wētā can survive being frozen solid in winter and thawing out in warmer temperatures. It is a nocturnal, flightless insect found in rocky alpine environments.

Stoat (Mustela erminea)
Introduced to New Zealand in the 19th century, stoats are a serious threat to native wildlife. They are highly effective predators, preying on birds, insects, and small mammals. Conservation efforts in the park aim to control their numbers to protect native species.