New Zealand native wildlife

New Zealand’s native wildlife is unique, featuring many species found nowhere else. It’s famous for flightless birds like the kiwi and kakapo, which evolved without predators, leading to their flightlessness. The country also has the tuatara, a reptile resembling a lizard but from a distinct lineage dating back millions of years. Forests are home to rare insects, glowing wētā, and colorful native plants. Many species are vulnerable or endangered due to habitat loss and introduced predators. Protecting this distinct wildlife is crucial to preserving New Zealand’s ecological heritage.