Morepork

The Morepork, known also as the mopoke or ruru, is a small, nocturnal owl native to New Zealand, with a presence on Norfolk Island and historically on Lord Howe Island. This owl is adorned with dark brown plumage, punctuated by pale spots, and possesses captivating golden-yellow eyes. It is a creature of the night, though occasionally seen at dawn and dusk, and is recognized by its distinctive two-pitched call, which has inspired many of its onomatopoeic names.

Identification Tips

Adult Moreporks measure between 26 to 29 cm in length, with females being slightly larger and heavier than males. They exhibit a dark brown head and upperparts, with a pale yellow-white supercilium and buff cheeks. Their underparts are dark brown with buff and white spots and streaks, giving the belly a paler appearance. The cere and bill are pale blue-grey, and their feet are a striking orange or yellow with blackish claws. Juveniles can be identified by the white, fluffy tips of their feathers, remnants of their down.

Habitat

In New Zealand, the Morepork is found in forests dominated by Podocarpus, Nothofagus, Metrosideros, and other hardwoods, extending up to the alpine tree line. On Norfolk Island, it resides in forests of Norfolk Island pine.

Distribution

The Morepork is common in many parts of New Zealand's North and South Islands, Stewart Island, and on Norfolk Island. It is less common in certain regions of New Zealand, particularly outside of its preferred forest habitats.

Behaviour

Moreporks are typically observed alone, in pairs, or in small family groups. They roost in secluded spots during the day and are primarily active at night. Their hunting peaks at evening and morning, and they may hunt by daylight in poor weather conditions.

Song & Calls

The Morepork's call is a distinctive two-pitched sound, which has given rise to its various common names.

Breeding

Moreporks choose to nest in hollows of large trees, a natural choice for these avian inhabitants of the forest.

Diet and Feeding

These owls are agile hunters, employing a perch-and-pounce technique and displaying swift, goshawk-like wing action. Their diet consists of large invertebrates such as beetles, moths, caterpillars, spiders, grasshoppers, and wētā, as well as small birds, rats, and mice.

Conservation status

The Morepork is classified as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, thanks to its extensive range and stable population. It is protected under Appendix II of CITES, regulating international trade to ensure its survival.