Mysteries of the Brown Kiwi

Describing the basic reproductive physiology and behavior of the brown kiwi in a high-density free ranging population is a unique and rare opportunity to study these birds in conditions similar to those prior to human arrival to New Zealand. 

We will also compare captive kiwi and wild kiwi in an attempt to determine the causes of the low reproductive success rate in captive populations. These studies will make use of base line data and new techniques developed using San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park kiwi.

Our team will use such diverse non-invasive techniques as ovarian ultrasound, DNA fingerprinting, detection of hormone levels using feces, behavioral observations using night-vision cameras, and radio tracking to solve some of the mysteries of kiwi reproductive physiology and behavior.

We determined that the work in New Zealand needed the expertise and enthusiasm of a post-doctoral and PhD student. Following an international search, the outstanding candidates Dr. Sarah Jamieson and Dawn Cumming were hired in late 2009. The last few months have been busy for these new members of the San Diego Zoo’s Institute for Conservation Research team. 

In addition to relocating to New Zealand, they have participated in a kiwi egg-handling course necessary to receive kiwi field handling certifications, as well forging partnerships with local Department of Conservation officials.

Sarah and Dawn have been visiting and familiarizing themselves with the field site to fine-tune our research objectives, learn new techniques and add their own ideas to make this project as successful as possible. 

Based at Massey University in Palmerston North, New Zealand post-doctoral fellow Dr. Sarah Jamieson and Ph.D. student Dawn Cummings are currently collecting data on wild populations in the field.

Stay tuned for new updates on our kiwi adventure after the upcoming breeding season!