The stitchbird or hihi is a honeyeater-like bird endemic to the North Island and adjacent offshore islands of New Zealand. Its evolutionary relationships have long puzzled ornithologists, but it is now classed as the only member of its own family, the Notiomystidae. It is rare, being extirpated everywhere except Little Barrier Island, but has been reintroduced to two other island sanctuaries and four locations on the North Island mainland. Current population estimations for mature individuals in the wild are 2,500–3,400.
Region
New Zealand (North Island and offshore sanctuaries)
Typical Environment
Historically widespread across the North Island, it now persists naturally on Little Barrier Island with reintroduced populations on predator-free islands and fenced mainland sanctuaries. It favors mature and regenerating native forest with abundant flowering trees such as kōwhai, rātā, rewarewa, pūriri, and flax. Cavity-bearing trees are essential for nesting, and supplementary feeders are often used in managed populations. It forages in the mid to upper canopy but will also use forest edges and clearings.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the hihi, the stitchbird is the sole member of the family Notiomystidae and is endemic to New Zealand. Males are striking with white ear tufts and a bright yellow band, while females are olive-brown. It is a cavity nester dependent on mature forests and is highly vulnerable to introduced predators. Its name comes from the sharp, sewing-like 'stitch' call, and it has unusual face-to-face copulation behavior rare among birds.
Temperament
active and alert
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile, darting movements
Social Behavior
Generally pairs or small groups around rich nectar sources; males can be territorial at feeders and flowering trees. They are cavity nesters, often using natural hollows or nest boxes. Mating system is complex with frequent extra-pair matings; both sexes may visit multiple partners.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls include sharp, repeated 'stitch' notes that give the species its common name, along with thin, high-pitched whistles. The song is a mix of squeaks, buzzes, and short trills delivered from perches in the mid-canopy.
