Attention, New Zealanders! A friendly warning to keep your distance from our beloved 'Bird of the Year' - the kārearea falcon. While this majestic bird is an impressive hunter, capable of reaching speeds of 200 km/h, it can also be a fierce protector of its nest.
During nesting season, kārearea become incredibly territorial, and some unfortunate walkers have experienced this first-hand. Imagine being dive-bombed by a falcon! It's a thrilling yet intimidating encounter.
"I heard them before I saw them, and then they swooped down on me. It was clear they were defending their nest," shared Ellie Morgan, a photographer who had a close encounter with kārearea.
Last week, the Hutt City Council issued a warning to stay clear of a bush track after nesting kārearea were spotted. "They've been attacking track users," the council said. "Give our 2025 Bird of the Year some space during nesting season."
Dianna Thomson, a Wellingtonian, had a similar experience. "The kārearea swooped so close over my head. It was a real eye-opener," she said.
With only 5,000 to 8,000 kārearea left, according to the Department of Conservation, it's crucial to respect their space. These birds breed from spring to summer and will defend their young until they fledge.
"They display territorial behavior within a 400-meter radius of their nest, and getting too close will certainly get their attention," explained Ali Meade, Conservation Delivery Manager at Forest & Bird.
Habitat destruction has pushed kārearea into smaller areas, increasing the likelihood of encounters with walkers. "We're coming into contact with them more frequently," Meade added.
So, what should you do if you find yourself in the presence of a nesting kārearea? Avoid areas with 'kārearea nesting' signs, and if you're within their dive-bombing range, leave calmly and quickly.
Remember, it's all about respecting their space and understanding our place in their world.
And there you have it - a fascinating insight into the world of our 'Bird of the Year'. But here's the controversial part: should we be more accommodating to these birds, or is it time to rethink our walking routes? What do you think? Let's discuss in the comments!
