In an exciting announcement for New Zealand’s wildlife, the powerful kārearea falcon has soared to victory, claiming the coveted Bird of the Year title! This incredible bird, known for its remarkable speed and hunting prowess in the native forests, captured the hearts of voters, securing 21% of the valid votes cast.
The kārearea, also known by its Māori name, is an absolute marvel of nature. Capable of breathtaking dives reaching up to 200km/h, it’s perfectly adapted to its environment. However, this magnificent raptor is facing significant threats, with only an estimated 5,000 to 8,000 remaining. This highlights the critical importance of conservation efforts for our native species.
This year’s competition marked a special milestone – the 20th anniversary of this highly anticipated event. The Bird of the Year poll serves as a vital platform to draw attention to New Zealand’s precious native birds, many of which are currently at risk of extinction. It’s a fun yet serious initiative to highlight the challenges faced by these species.
Each of the 73 bird candidates had dedicated volunteer campaign managers who enthusiastically championed their feathered contenders. Through creative memes, engaging social media reels, and charming hand-drawn posters, they rallied support and brought the unique personalities of each bird to life.
Nicola Toki, chief executive of Forest & Bird, the organisation behind the poll, emphasized the underlying conservation message: “Behind the memes and mayhem is a serious message. This year’s top 10 manu matches the statistics exactly – 80% of them are in trouble.” She pointed out that species like the kākāpō and the karure black robin are “nationally critical,” with fewer than 300 individuals of each left. Toki added, “Habitat destruction, climate change and introduced predators continue to push many species towards extinction. But public awareness can be powerful.”
This year’s competition saw a record-breaking turnout, with over 75,000 votes cast, demonstrating the public’s strong engagement with New Zealand’s natural heritage. The campaign even included an election debate where campaign managers passionately argued for their birds’ deserving of the title.
As the crowned Bird of the Year, the kārearea will be celebrated with a new waiata (Māori song), further sharing its story and importance with the wider community.
Close on the kārearea’s heels were the kea, receiving 12,506 votes, and the kakaruia, or black robin, with 11,726 votes. Last year’s competition saw the shy yellow-eyed penguin, the hoiho, clinch the win, narrowly beating the black robin.
The kākāpō, famously the world’s fattest parrot, which has won the title twice before, was ineligible this year after being removed in 2022 to offer other species a chance to shine.
Notable contenders also included the takahē, a bird once thought extinct but now making a comeback, and the elusive ruru, or morepork, a small owl known for its distinctive call.
The competition also featured a popular bird-themed version of the word game Wordle, known as ‘Birdle,’ adding another layer of fun and engagement for participants.
The Bird of the Year competition has gained international recognition, especially after comedian John Oliver’s high-profile campaign for the endangered pūteketeke in a previous year. His efforts included a memorable appearance on his talk show and widespread billboards, highlighting the global interest in New Zealand’s unique avian life.
The competition has not been without its controversies, with past allegations of voter fraud and foreign interference, as well as public outcry when a bat was crowned the winner in 2021.
With over 70 species competing, ranging in conservation status, the contest powerfully illustrates the urgent need for biodiversity protection in New Zealand, battling threats from predators and habitat loss.
Beyond New Zealand, other countries are also celebrating their local birdlife, with Australia currently running its own Bird of the Year competition.