- Conservation status
- In serious trouble
The tara iti has the dubious honour of being the rarest bird in Aotearoa. They nest on shell-covered sand near the sea and are extremely vulnerable to predation and extreme weather events. They do have one superpower − they can drink sea water.
They’re masters of disguise − their eggs are speckled to blend in perfectly with the sand, and, when parents call an alarm, the chicks stand still, fading into the background.
Campaign Manager
Melissa and Claudia Gunn
Dr Melissa Gunn (scientist and author) and Claudia Robin Gunn (award-winning singer-songwriter and creative design expert) combine their talents to bring out the best in any bird. This year they're excited to do their bit for the critically endangered Tara iti. They're sure that heads will tern for this endemic endangered bird.
- Share your vote
