A Southern Brown Kiwi, or Tokoeka, from the Haast region of New Zealand has surprised experts by laying two eggs this season. This is an unusual event for this type of bird.
The West Coast Wildlife Centre, which looks after rare Kiwis, said Tokoeka usually lay only one egg a year. This is because they live in colder parts of the South Island where food is harder to find. In warmer areas like the North Island, some Kiwis can lay up to four eggs a year.
Devon Collins, who works at the centre, explained that they received three Tokoeka eggs this season, including two from the same mother. The first egg from this Kiwi was one of the smallest the centre has ever raised, just 320 grams. Her second egg was slightly heavier at 360 grams.
The Haast Tokoeka is one of the rarest Kiwi types, with only about 400 left in the wild. In other areas, like Stewart Island and Fiordland, there are many more.
Collins said each egg is very important for helping these birds survive. Kiwis in the wild often lose their eggs to predators, so rescuing even one extra egg can make a big difference.
