North Island Bush Falcon | Kārearea (Falco novaeseelandiae ferox)

The North Island Bush Falcon, known as Kārearea in Māori, is a small, agile bird of prey native to the North Island of New Zealand. They primarily hunt other birds, such as pigeons, parakeets, seabirds, and pheasants, but are also opportunistic hunters, preying on mammals like rabbits, hares, and stoats, as well as insects including cicadas, beetles, and dragonflies. They are often seen in pine cut-over areas, which attract small birds that they prey upon. The North Island Bush Falcon is classified as ‘Nationally Increasing’.

All close-up portraits have been taken at the Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre in Rotorua. Special thanks to Wingspan for their continued support.