The South Island Robin (Petroica australis) or Kakaruwai is an endemic bird of South and Stewart Islands in New Zealand. The South Island Robin is a small passerine, 10–18 cm in length and weighing around 35 g.
The North Island Robin (Petroica longipes) is closely related to the South Island species, and was in fact considered the same species at one time. The birds in these pictures - South Island Robins - show the clearly divided dark grey upper chest, and pale yellow-white lower chest that separates them from the North Island Species.
These robins are both closely related to the Robins of Australia - and are not that closely related to the European or North American birds with which they share a common name.
The South Island Robin is a remarkably inquisitive bird, and it will willing investigate soil that has been scuffed with the toe of a boot or scratched with a stick. Once the soil has been disturbed, the birds will come within a few meters of humans.
Like many birds in NZ (and elsewhere for that matter) their range and abundance have been reduced by habitat damage and the introduction of non-native predators.
These pictures were taken on Stewart Island.
As ever, to join in with WBW click on the link below. Hope all is well. SM
Hari OM
ReplyDeleteHe may not have the red breast of his norther cousin, but this wee lad has all the same charm and it's easy to see why he got branded as "Robin"! YAM xx
Thank you for the introduction to this sweet bird. Have a nice week. Stewart Aloha!
ReplyDeleteSouth Island Robin looks so cute
ReplyDeleteThat is so darling! Delicate and chirpy, I bet.
ReplyDeletepretty little bird.....
ReplyDeleteIsn't he gorgeous Thanks for hosting and commenting and have a great week ahead.
ReplyDeleteWhat a little beauty. Robin has certainly been co-opted for many birds around the world - even those that are not robins at all.
ReplyDeleteLots of birds are called Robins it seems.. This one is very different from the Robin's that I am used to. Ours are larger and red breasted.. A favorite of many, a harbinger of spring although many stay around all winter these days..
ReplyDeleteNice pictures as always. Cute little bird.
I have no birdies to share with you this week Stewart. Hope all is well.
It is sad about the habitat loss.
ReplyDeleteExcellent photos of this beautiful robin. I didn't know this bird.
ReplyDeleteWow, these are stunning photos! It's amazing how inquisitive they are.
ReplyDeleteShape and size they are so like our robins here just minus the red breast, Fabulous photos, well done. I hope all is well, Cheers Diane
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