Wekas

Wekas are flightless birds in the rail family native to New Zealand and its offshore islands. The best-known form is the brown weka, commonly referred to simply as the weka, a medium-sized bird with brown to olive-brown plumage, a long neck, and a slightly curved bill. Wekas are ground-dwelling and omnivorous, foraging on the forest floor for invertebrates, fruit, seeds, and occasionally eggs or nestlings of other birds.

Throughout New Zealand, wekas occupy a range of habitats, including forests, scrublands, grasslands, and coastal areas. They are largely diurnal and can be bold around humans, often scavenging at campsites and gardens. Territorial behavior is common, especially during the breeding season.

Breeding occurs on the ground with nests hidden in leaf litter or under vegetation; clutches contain several eggs. Both parents participate in nest defense and chick rearing. Growth is relatively rapid, and chicks become independent after a few weeks, though survival is strongly influenced by predator presence.

Conservation status varies by population. Mainland populations have declined due to introduced predators such as stoats, cats, and rats, as well as habitat loss. Island populations persist in predator-free environments and are often the focus of conservation programs. In New Zealand, the weka is protected by wildlife law, and various restoration projects operate in reserves and offshore islands. The species has cultural significance for Māori and remains a recognizable emblem of New Zealand’s unique fauna.