The South Island kōkako is a forest bird endemic to the South Island and Stewart Island of New Zealand. Unlike its close relative, the North Island kōkako, it has largely orange wattles, with only a small patch of blue at the base, and was also known as the orange-wattled crow. The last accepted sighting in 2007 was the first considered genuine since 1967, although there have been several other unauthenticated reports -.
Region
South Island and Stewart Island, New Zealand
Typical Environment
Historically occupied mature temperate podocarp–broadleaf and beech forests with a complex mid‑canopy. It favors dense, mixed native forest featuring fruiting trees such as miro, kahikatea, and tawa, along with kamahi and southern beech. The species typically forages in the mid to upper understory and along ridgelines and gullies. Remaining potential habitat is remote, rugged, and sparsely populated, which contributes to the difficulty of detecting it.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The South Island kōkako is a secretive, forest-dwelling wattlebird known for its haunting, organ‑like song that can carry for kilometers. It is closely related to the North Island kōkako but has largely orange wattles with only a bluish base. Long considered possibly extinct, it continues to generate occasional credible reports, keeping hope alive for its persistence. It moves mostly by leaping and gliding through the canopy rather than sustained flight.
South Island kōkako (Callaeas cinerea) specimen from the Auckland Museum collection
Temperament
secretive and territorial
Flight Pattern
short glides between trees; weak, labored flier
Social Behavior
Usually encountered in pairs or family groups that maintain and defend large territories. Pairs form long-term bonds and perform soft contact calls and duet singing. Nests are built in dense foliage or forks of trees, with both parents contributing to care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is rich, resonant, and flute‑like, often compared to organ notes, delivered in slow phrases. Vocalizations carry over long distances in still forest air, especially at dawn. Pairs may duet, creating overlapping, echoing sequences.
