The Black Stilt, called Kakī in Māori, is one of the rarest wading birds in the world, endemic to New Zealand. This bird is easily identified by its entirely black plumage and long, pinkish-red legs. Its slender, straight bill is perfectly adapted for foraging in shallow waters.
Black Stilts primarily feed on aquatic insects, small fish, and crustaceans, using their keen eyesight and quick movements to catch prey. Their foraging techniques include wading through shallow water and upturning stones, and pecking or probing the bottom layer; they are also known to forage in fields.
The breeding habitat of the Black Stilt is typically braided river systems in the South Island of New Zealand, where they nest on gravel banks and islands. These environments provide the necessary isolation and protection from predators.
The Black Stilt is critically endangered, with threats including habitat destruction, predation by introduced species, and environmental changes. The species is highly managed by the New Zealand Department of Conservation, captive breeding birds and providing incubation of most eggs. Efforts are also in place to protect and restore their population, involving habitat management, predator control, and captive breeding programs.
There are six species of stilt in the world. Here at Birdorable, as part of Avocet & Stilt Week, we're introducing four new to our family. These will be joining the two existing Birdorable stilts -- and completing the family! Read more »
Among the ten total global species of avocets and stilts, wading birds that are members of the Recurvirostridae family, there are a lot of interesting information and fascinating facts. Following our Amazing Adaptations post, here are some more facts about these long-legged birds. Read more »
Stilts and Avocets are the only birds in the family Recurvirostridae. We'll be highlighting them on the Birdorable blog this week. Since Recurvirostridae Week is a mouthful, we're calling it Avocet & Stilt Week. These fascinating wading birds are often found in wetlands, marshes, and shallow water... Read more »
