The New Zealand Pigeon, commonly known as the Wood Pigeon, or Kererū, is one of our iconic birds.  It's an impressive sight with its large breast and white apron.  It mostly lives in native forests but is seen throughout the country in cities and gardens too.  You’ll know if a Kererū flies over as you will hear its loud swooshing wing beats that make it sound like a very untidy flyer.

The Kererū is an important bird for the conservation of native plants and trees and plays an essential part in their distribution.  Sadly the Kererū is under threat from predators such as rats, cats, possums and stoats.  The fact that they only lay one egg at a time doesn't help them prosper.  The Kererū is now a protected bird but in the past was hunted for its meat and feathers. 

What do Wood Pigeons Eat?

The Kererū love seeds and can swallow large native seeds - up to the size of a 20c piece!  Their preferred food is probably fruit but as this isn’t always available to them they will eat a variety of flowers and leaves as well.

To support Kererū you can put out fresh fruit for them. Planting native plants and trees is also important as these are their natural food sources.

Support the creatures you kohabit with: