can kiwi birds be pets

Can Kiwi Birds Be Kept as Pets?

Kiwis are an iconic bird species. They are native to New Zealand, and a number of threats have caused their numbers to decline in recent decades.

Predation and human habitat destruction have resulted in a significant decline in their population.

With only an estimated 68,000 kiwis left in the wild, it has become a major conservation concern.

At the moment, kiwis are considered “at-risk,” and continued conservation efforts are required to prevent their decline.

Thankfully, committed groups have been founded to offer protection in both the wild and in captivity.

They are working to ensure that this cherished bird is around for a very long time for future generations.

Would Kiwis Make For Good Pets?

Even if kiwis were widely available, they wouldn’t make good pets!

They are extremely sensitive to human contact and need a specific diet as well as a unique habitat and environment.

In addition, kiwis are nocturnal birds that primarily eat insects in their natural habitat.

This limits contact to nighttime, which would be frustrating for the owner, and makes it difficult for pet owners to replicate their natural diet in captivity.

can kiwi birds be pets

Kiwis are also accustomed to vast expanses of open space and dense vegetation.

Kiwis require plenty of space to roam free. Because of all of this, they rank among the more challenging exotic birds to raise as pets.

Finally, despite the fact that they can develop close relationships with their caregiver, kiwis aren’t particularly well-known for their social skills.

They react poorly to human contact up close and become easily stressed when handled.

They are therefore an inappropriate option for people looking for a cuddly pet.

Can You Buy a Kiwi Bird Anywhere in The World?

Because of their widespread appeal and cultural significance, kiwis are highly sought-after pets in many nations worldwide.

Nevertheless, nowhere in the world is it possible to purchase a live Kiwi bird.

Since there is a threat to their population, they are protected.

Still, a lot of shops and internet retailers sell plush toys, figurines, and copies of this bird (as well as the distinctive Kiwi eggs!).

These offer the perfect option for people who want to have a piece of Kiwi memorabilia without having an adverse effect on any wild populations.

can kiwi birds be pets

FAQ

Are kiwi birds good pets?

Kiwis would not make good pets even if they were available in abundance! They require a specialized diet, unique habitat, and environment and are incredibly sensitive to human contact. Moreover, Kiwis are nocturnal birds that feed mainly on insects in the wild.

Is it legal to have a kiwi bird as a pet?

Absolutely not! In fact, it’s not legal to own them anywhere as a pet, including New Zealand. They are the national symbol of that country and are considered an endangered species. Therefore, they are protected and only very specifically permitted zoos and breeding facilities can have them.

Can I touch a kiwi bird?

If the bird is calm and the crowd isn’t super huge, sometimes people can touch the feathers on the back side of the bird. In the vast majority of cases, only an accredited handler is allowed to hold a kiwi.

Can I hold a kiwi bird?

Kiwi are nocturnal animals, who should be kept in suitable dark enclosures, and minimally handled. The best practice manual for kiwi states that they shouldn’t be handled often or taken out of their burrow to be held by the public, it continues.