Home > NZ Native Fauna > New Zealand Pigeon / Kereru
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New Zealand Pigeon / Kereru
Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae
ENDEMIC. COMMON. RESIDENT.
DISTRIBUTION: Common throughout the main islands of New Zealand. Also found on some of the closest offshore islands as well as the Chatham Islands.
HABITAT: Reaches largest numbers in mature podocarp forest but can be found in scrub areas and even urban parks and gardens.
BREEDING: Like most pigeons the New Zealand Pigeon creates a very crude flimsy nest, often of just a few criss-crossed sticks. 1-2 eggs are laid and incubation takes 29-30 days with both parents participating fully. Breeding has been observed in all months but peak activity is between October and January.
FOOD: A range of fruits, berries, leaves, and flowers are eaten, both native and exotic.
VOICE: Soft 'coo'.
GENERAL: Unmistakable swooshing sound when flying. Human predation appears to be the main threat to its survival. It is the largest of the pigeon family.
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