All Animals

Ruru | Morepork

Ninox novaeseelandiae
Bird

Step into the world of our ruru (moreporks) and unlock the wonders of these extraordinary creatures

A morepork looking to the side

The ruru (morepork) is a small, brown owl native to Aotearoa New Zealand. These charismatic birds of prey have a distinctive "more-pork" call that echoes through the night, often heard in the forests and woodlands across the country. Their haunting call has earned them a place in Māori folklore, where they are seen as spiritual guardians.

Despite their small size, ruru (moreporks) are skilled hunters, using their sharp talons and excellent night vision to capture a diverse range of prey, including insects, small mammals, and birds. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in various habitats, from dense forests to open farmland, and even urban areas.

Conservation efforts, including predator control and habitat preservation, are crucial in ensuring the survival of these captivating creatures for future generations to appreciate.

Quick facts

Distribution:

Aotearoa New Zealand's North Island

Habitat:

Forests, urban areas, farmlands, plantations

Conservation Status:

Least Concern

Fun fact

The ruru (morepork) flies silently thanks to special wing feathers. These feathers have serrated edges which reduce turbulence and muffle the sound of air passing over them.