New Zealand is a land full of unusual creatures, many that can only be found on these intrepid isles. From land parrots to living fossils, New Zealand offers a wide array of animal encounters for the zoophilist in us all!
New Zealand is home to one of the largest and heaviest insect in the world, the Wētā! A giant, flightless cricket, the Wētā is a nocturnal insect that has existed since dinosaurs were alive. With many Wētā species threatened or endangered, conservation efforts are being made to increase their numbers. For more information on the giant Wētā, check out the New Zealand Department of Conservation!
There are no land snakes in New Zealand, but there are plenty of reptiles! The Tuatara are a native lizard species that has been around since 200 million years ago. Possesing a third eye on top of their head, these living fossils can live to be over a hundred years old. To learn more about Tuataras, visit the New Zealand Department of Conservation!
There are no dangerous creatures in New Zealand, but there is a bird that will rip your car apart! Kea, the world's only alpine parrots, have been know to steal windsheild wipers off cars as well as other shiny baubles that catch their eyes. Extreemly cunning and very smart, these parrots can be seen living in the mountains around Milford Sound and Arthur's Pass. Learn more about these devious birds at the New Zealand Department of Conservation!
Come meet the world's most beloved flightless parrot! The Kākāpō is a critically endagered species only able to be seen on a few islands off the coast of New Zealand. This intelligent and inquisitive bird loves to eat flowers and tree bark found in the forest during their nightly foraging escapades. Current conservation efforts are being lead by the Kākāpō Recovery. We would love for you to stop by and learn more about our beloved Kākāpō! For more information check out NZ Birds.