About the South Island Takahe
The South Island takahē is a flightless swamphen indigenous to New Zealand and the largest living member of the rail family. It is often known by the abbreviated name takahē, which it shares with the recently extinct North Island takahē. The two takahē species are also known as notornis.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
ID tip
The South Island takahē is the largest living member of the family Rallidae. Its overall length averages 63 cm (25 in) and its average weight is about 2.7 kg (6.0 lb) in males and 2.3 kg (5.1 lb) in females, ranging from 1.8–4.2 kg (4.0–9.3 lb). The lifespan of a takahē can range from 18 years in the wild or 22 in animal sanctuaries. Its standing height is around 50 cm (20 in). It is a stocky, powerful bird, with short strong legs and a massive bill which can deliver a painful bite to the unwary.
Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
Where the South Island Takahe lives
When to see the South Island Takahe
Peak activity in November · a resident species across most of its range
Easily confused with
Allen's GallinulePorphyrio alleniThey are similar in size to the only slightly larger water rail.
Azure GallinulePorphyrio flavirostrisThe azure gallinule is 23 to 26 cm (9.1 to 10 in) long.
Purple GallinulePorphyrio martinicaThe purple gallinule is a medium-sized rail, measuring 26–37 cm (10–15 in) in length, spanning 50–61 cm (20–24 in) across the wings and weighing 141–305 g (5.0–10.8 oz).
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