Takahe bird
Originally uploaded by Driver2.
Takahe are classified as an endangered species and are managed by the Department of Conservation. To help conserve the species, a few pairs of takahe have been established on four islands: Maud Island (Marlborough Sounds), Mana Island (off Wellington’s west coast), Kapiti Island (north of Mana) and Tiritiri Matangi Island (Hauraki Gulf). Since 1984 these birds have bred and increased the total population on islands to about 60 birds. This shows that takahe may adapt to a variety of habitats.