New Zealand Bellbird - OFF DISPLAY
Anthornis melanura
Distribution:
New Zealand
Habitat:
Native forests
Diet:
Nectar, fruit, insects.
Gestation:
Three - four eggs, incubated for 14 days,
General:
The New Zealand bellbird, commonly called korimako or makomako, is a common bird endemic to New Zealand. It is a member of the honeyeater family, the only other member of which in New Zealand is the tui.
Bellbirds play an important ecological role by aiding in forest regeneration. By eating nectar, bellbirds pollinate many native species of plants. They also help by eating the fruits of native plants and dispersing the seeds to other areas via their droppings.
Loss of their native forest habitat via farming has affected the population and distribution of New Zealand bellbirds. Introduced mammalian predators and food-stealing competitors, such as wasps, have also reduced their numbers.
Their calls vary depending on location, and bellbird songs are commonly mistaken for tui.
Bellbirds breed in summer and spring months, and are quite territorial during this time. Both parents feed and care for the hatchlings.
At Hamilton Zoo:
We have five bellbirds in our free flight aviary. If you walk quietly and carefully, and keep your eyes wide open, you may be able to spot them!