Longaevus

Longaevus is a genus of small, flightless birds native to New Zealand. The genus includes two species, the New Zealand long-tailed cuckoo (Longaevus temminckii) and the New Zealand long-tailed cuckoo (Longaevus rogersi). Both species are critically endangered due to habitat loss and predation by introduced species. The New Zealand long-tailed cuckoo is the larger of the two species, with a length of up to 30 centimeters and a wingspan of up to 40 centimeters. The New Zealand long-tailed cuckoo is smaller, with a length of up to 25 centimeters and a wingspan of up to 35 centimeters. Both species are known for their long tails, which are used for balance and display. The genus Longaevus is part of the family Cuculidae, which includes cuckoos and related birds. The genus name Longaevus is derived from the Latin words longus, meaning "long," and aevum, meaning "life," reflecting the birds' long lifespan and long tails. The genus was first described by the Dutch naturalist Coenraad Jacob Temminck in 1824.