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Karearea, the New Zealand falcon
falco novaseelandiae
-38.1368, 176.25
Field Notes
Description:
Globally accepted as acutely threatened with extinction, this falcon can only be found in New Zealand and is believed to be far less in numbers than the additionally endangered kiwi. It is an extremely fast bird, capable of flying at up to 230kms an hour and has been clocked at more than 17 g-forces. They have eyesight eight times better than humans. They are a remarkably agile hunter and strong enough to take up to six times their own bodyweight in prey.
Habitat:
It is found in small numbers in mountain ranges in both the North and South Islands of New Zealand and in a few small islands off the New Zealand coast. As it is a hunter, rather than a carrion eater (although it will if it has to in winter) preferring live prey, it's most common food is to be found in these regions. However, with the advent of a number of introduced species, the threat to breeding pairs has been huge and DOC and Wingspan Trust are always interested in hearing from people who have sighted these birds.
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