- Conservation status
- In some trouble
Also known as the bush canary, mohua live in fast-moving, noisy flocks. Based high in the canopy, they bring the beech forests of Te Waipounamu to life with their loud, melodious calls. They feed among the branches by picking off the moss and lichen to expose their favourite prey: beetles, caterpillars, spiders, and moths.
Campaign Manager
South Otago High School
Why the mohua you ask? Why not!?
Firstly, there is the obvious fact that this tiny yellow diva is severely underrated in the pantheon of New Zealand native species, an embarrassing amount of people don't even know about them, which is an atrocity!
Then we must address that this bird is clearly the fanciest bird – otherwise why else would it be on the $100 note. They are also super relatable – hanging out in squads, often feeding in chatty groups like they’re on a brunch date.
Additionally, this bird is semi-local to my area, being found in the Catlins forest (can also be seen other beautiful places like Ulva Island).
This bird was once common, now rare, radiating reclusive celebrity vibes. Its numbers have been reduced massively due to introduced predators so raising awareness will hopefully motive people to chip in to potentially help this tiny bird with a big attitude recover in numbers, adding more volume and sass to the natural dawn chorus of our forests.
Finally - they are simply the best https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2FFJpt559aU
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