They are fat and frisky.  Not usually a good combination for a fun night under the duvet - but for our kiwi in the wild, it is mating nirvana.   Our Rangers report pairs disappearing in to their burrows and getting on with the task at hand.  

The breeding season runs until March next year – when food is at its most plentiful. Kiwi partnerships have been known to last more than 20 years, so good to know these guys are in it for the long haul.  It all starts with the little duets they perform, calling longingly to each other.  Then every three days or so, they share a burrow.

For the male, mating is a challenge.  With no wings or tail to help with balance and his mate being the larger of the two, he needs complete cooperation.  Should the female lose interest, she literally just wanders off, leaving the male in an undignified heap.  However, instinct rules and if she is in the mood, mating will take place three or four times a night.

We will keep you updated on progress.

TVNZ's Wild Vets love our kiwi

Great coverage on our historic kiwi transfer, this week on TVNZ's Wild Vets.  Click here to view (in case you missed it).