Hungry weka looking for food in a Totaranui (Abel Tasman National Park) car park.

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The weka (also known as Maori hen or woodhen) (Gallirallus australis) is a flightless bird species of the rail family. It is endemic to New Zealand. Four subspecies are recognized. Weka are sturdy brown birds, about the size of a chicken. As omnivores, they feed mainly on invertebrates and fruit. Weka occupy areas such as forests, sub-alpine grassland, sand dunes, rocky shores and modified semi-urban environments. They are omnivorous, with a diet comprising 30% animal foods and 70% plant foods. Animal foods include earthworms, larvae, beetles, weta, ants, grass grubs, slugs, snails, insect eggs, slaters, frogs, spiders, rats, mice, and small birds. Weka are classed as a vulnerable species.

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Size: 3000px × 2000px
Location: Totaranui (Abel Tasman National Park), New Zealand
Photo credit: © glenn bemont / Alamy / Afripics
License: Royalty Free
Model Released: No

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