Scientific Classification
KINGDOM: Animalia
PHYLUM: Chordata
CLASS: Aves
ORDER: Apterygiformes
FAMILY: Apterygidae
GENUS: Apteryx
SPECIES: A. owenii
Conservation Status
These are the smallest species of kiwi growing up to 18 inches long and weighing only 2-4 pounds.
Their lengthy beaks allow them to have an excellent sense of smell. In fact, they are the only bird with nostrils at the end of their beak.
Regardless of sex, all little spotted kiwis are a pale mottled gray and white color, as well as lacking a tail or tail feathers.
Their long, pale legs end in large feet and claws used for digging and terrirorial fights.
Little spotted kiwis are also intelligent. Similar to crows, they have memories of tricks or people that treated them wrong for at least five years. For example, if a kiwi heard a fake recording, it may fall for it once but then will circle is suspiciously or challenge it then next time.