The morepork, better known as the morepork owl, and also known by numerous other onomatopoeic names, is a smallish, brown owl species found in New Zealand, and to the northwest, on Norfolk Island, an Australian territory. It was also, formerly, found on Lord Howe Island. Three subspecies of the morepork are recognised, one of which is extinct and another that exists only as a hybrid population.
Region
New Zealand and Norfolk Island, Southwest Pacific
Typical Environment
The morepork occupies native and plantation forests, regenerating scrub, forest edges, and shelterbelts. It also uses rural farmland mosaics and urban parks where mature trees and cavities are available. Day roosts are in dense foliage, while nests are typically in natural cavities or old nests. It occurs on many offshore islands and persists on Norfolk Island mainly as hybrids derived from New Zealand birds.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The morepork is a small nocturnal owl named for its distinctive two-note call that sounds like 'more-pork'. It is common throughout much of New Zealand and persists on Norfolk Island as a hybrid population after the original subspecies declined. A closely related population on Lord Howe Island is extinct. Moreporks are important controllers of insects and small vertebrates in forest and rural ecosystems.
Morepork (ruru) in New Zealand
Egg from N. novaeseelandiae in the collection of Auckland Museum
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
silent flier with short rapid wingbeats and brief glides
Social Behavior
Generally seen alone or in pairs, with territories defended year-round. Breeding pairs nest in tree cavities, often reusing sites across seasons. Clutches usually contain 2–3 eggs, and both adults feed the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, resonant two-note call repeated at intervals, commonly rendered as 'more-pork'. Also gives sharp yelps, squeals, and soft hoots during territorial or courtship interactions.
