New Zealand's smallest bird set to spread its wings in Zealandia Ecosanctuary

Thursday, 24 November 2016

New Zealand's smallest bird is set to become the latest addition to Wellington's Zealandia Ecosanctuary.

The sanctuary announced on Thursday it planned to bring 80 rifleman (titiponamu) to the predator-free enclosure in March next year, with another 80 to be transferred to the nearby Otari-Wilton's Bush in 2018.

Zealandia has introduced 18 species of wildlife into the sanctuary since it was established, but the rifleman will be the first new species to be introduced in more than five years.

It is just the sixth time a rifleman population has been relocated within New Zealand.

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'We are incredibly excited to welcome this taonga to Wellington city,' conservation manager Dr Danielle Shanahan said.

'The titipounamu is an endearing little bird and an important part of our ecosystem. Their call will help complete the cacophony of bird song we already hear in the sanctuary valley.'

Zealandia will be working closely with Wellington City Council, volunteers, community partners and local iwi to ensure the ongoing success of the translocation.

'This is only possible because of the incredible efforts by the community and Wellington City Council to make our suburbs safe again for native wildlife.'

Zealandia is seeking donations to assist with the project through its website.

Rifleman/Titiponamu:

New Zealand's smallest native bird species

Conservation Status: Declining

Belongs to ancient endemic family, Acanthisittidae (New Zealand wrens)

One of just two surviving species in its family

Named for its green plumage reminiscent of colonial troops (English) and after pounamu/greenstone (Te Reo)

Appeared on New Zealand's $2 notes until 1991