Harmaakaihia

Harmaakaihia, also known as the New Zealand pigeon or the kākā, is a species of bird native to New Zealand. It is the national bird of New Zealand and is recognized by the silver fern on its breast. The harmaakaihia is a medium-sized pigeon, typically measuring around 35-40 centimeters in length and weighing between 300-400 grams. It has a distinctive appearance, with a grayish-brown body, a white rump, and a black cap with a white stripe running through the eye.

The harmaakaihia is known for its intelligence and adaptability. It is one of the few bird species that can understand and respond to human speech, making it a popular subject in scientific research. The bird is also known for its ability to mimic sounds and other birds' calls, which it uses to communicate with its flock.

The harmaakaihia is a social bird and typically lives in flocks of up to 20 individuals. It is omnivorous, feeding on a variety of foods including seeds, fruits, insects, and even human food scraps. The bird is also known for its nesting habits, which involve building a large, cup-shaped nest in trees or on cliffs.

The harmaakaihia is currently listed as a species of least concern by the IUCN, but it faces several threats, including habitat loss, predation by introduced species, and climate change. Conservation efforts are underway to protect the harmaakaihia and its habitat, ensuring the survival of this iconic New Zealand bird.