Kiwi First Aid

Here’s what to do if you find a sick or injured kiwi:

Only handle the legs and lower body of the kiwi if possible – a squeeze of the chest will kill even a healthy kiwi. Be careful of the claws because kiwi can kick hard, and hold the legs firmly together to move the kiwi.

Keep the kiwi warm, dark and quiet.

A closed box with an old towel or newspaper is good.

Keep the box in a quiet place out of sunlight. If the weather is cold a heat pack or hot water bottle with warm water in it can be used to keep the kiwi warm.

Ring Todd Hamilton ph 9748160 or cell 021145385 if you are in the Whangarei Heads area or the Department of Conservation Whangarei Area office ph 4703304.

We will arrange vet treatment if needed.

The Whangarei Native Bird Recovery Centre ph 438 1457 is also available.

What to do if you find a dead kiwi:

Stop and look around the where the kiwi body is, take photos to help work out the cause of death if possible. Have a look for any kiwi radio transmitter or metal band on or near the body.(link to x photo)

Put the body in a plastic bag but DO NOT FREEZE.

If possible put it in a chilly bin with ice or refrigerate.

Ring Todd Hamilton ph 9748160 or cell 021145385 if you are in the Whangarei Heads area or the Department of Conservation Whangarei Area office ph 4703304

We will collect the kiwi and it will be autopsied to ascertain cause of death and also used for scientific studies.