Key Takeaways:
- A kiwi was found in a sleepout and was safely returned to the outdoors with the help of its finder.
- Experts believe the kiwi may have been a lost juvenile that wandered into the house due to its poor eyesight.
- It is essential to get instructions from experts when dealing with wild animals like kiwi to avoid transferring germs or diseases.
- Kiwi have a unique biology that makes them vulnerable to injuries, and handling them requires trained experts.
- The best course of action when finding a kiwi in a confined space is to clear the way out and gently usher the bird out if needed, without picking it up.
Introduction to the Incident
A remarkable incident occurred when a kiwi was found in a sleepout, and one of the people involved shared the experience on social media, describing it as wonderful. The kiwi was reportedly very calm, despite being in an unfamiliar environment, and was safely returned to the outdoors. The person who found the kiwi wrote about the experience, saying, "I fetched the others who likewise thought I was joking! The kiwi was very calm, although I suspect the light would have blinded him. I carefully ushered him into a place where I carefully picked him up and placed him outside, where he scooted off into the night."
Expert Insights
Forest & Bird regional conservation manager for Waikato and Taranaki, Elvisa van der Leden, shared her expertise on the matter, suggesting that the kiwi might have been a lost juvenile. According to van der Leden, kiwi have terrible eyesight and navigate more with their sense of smell. She believed that there was likely bush near the sleepout where the kiwi was found, and that it simply wandered into the house without realizing it wasn’t outside anymore. Van der Leden emphasized the importance of getting instructions from experts when dealing with wild animals like kiwi, as it is easy to accidentally transfer germs or diseases to them, and vice versa.
Handling Wild Kiwi
Van der Leden also highlighted the importance of handling kiwi with care, as they have a unique biology that makes them vulnerable to injuries. She explained that kiwi have a very specific ribcage area that is quite vulnerable, requiring trained experts to handle them without harming them. Van der Leden advised that waiting for a Department of Conservation ranger to provide instructions is always the best course of action when dealing with a wild kiwi or other animal. This ensures that the animal is handled safely and humanely, minimizing the risk of injury or harm.
Department of Conservation Guidelines
Department of Conservation biodiversity liaison Jess Scrimgeour also shared her expertise on the matter, emphasizing the importance of letting kiwi find their own way out of confined spaces. Scrimgeour advised clearing the way out and gently ushering the bird if needed, while giving it space if it seems stressed. She strongly urged people not to pick up kiwi, as they have under-developed wing and chest muscles and lack a sternum, making them particularly vulnerable to crushing injuries. By following these guidelines, individuals can help ensure the safe and successful release of kiwi back into the wild.
Conclusion and Recommendations
In conclusion, the incident of the kiwi in the sleepout highlights the importance of handling wild animals with care and seeking expert advice when dealing with them. By understanding the unique biology and needs of kiwi, individuals can take steps to ensure their safety and well-being. The guidelines provided by experts, such as van der Leden and Scrimgeour, offer valuable insights and recommendations for those who may encounter a kiwi or other wild animal in a confined space. By following these guidelines and taking a responsible and informed approach, we can help protect and conserve these amazing creatures for future generations to enjoy.
