The name Kiwi is a common name given to three types of flightless bird native to New Zealand. During the 1800's the mammal-like bird almost became extinct after they were systematically killed for their feathers. Today their numbers are declining due to deforestation for logging, ranching and agricultural; and the introduction of non-native predators such as weasels, feral cats, and dogs.

Male kiwis avgerage weight is about 1.6-1.8kg/3.5-4.0lbs and average height is 40.6cm/16in. A female average weight is 2-2.2kg/4.5-5.0lbs and average height is 50.8 cm/20in. Female kiwis are significantly larger than the males. This might be due to the fact that they must carry an egg that is almost one fifth their body mass. The body of the kiwi is chunky and their feet are very short. A kiwis wings are very short, only about 2 inches long, and are covered with fluffy feathers that resemble hair. The bill is very unusual for that of birds because they have narrow nostrils near the tip. Unlike most birds, kiwis have poor eyesight. This disability is offset by their excellent hearing and sense of smell. Unlike most other birds, kiwis lack tails. Since the kiwis is nocturnal, most of it's foraging is at night. The diet of the kiwi is composed of worms and other invertebrates, seeds and berries which they locate by scent during the early morning.