South Island Wren

Xenicus gilviventris

Endangered

The South Island Wren, or New Zealand rock wren (piwauwau), is a small alpine songbird found only in the mountains of New Zealand's South Island, from northwest Nelson to Fiordland. It lives among rock, scree, tussock, and low shrubs above the treeline, bobbing on long legs and making short whirring flights as it forages for insects. Fun fact: It is New Zealand's only true alpine bird, remaining in the harsh mountain zone year-round and sheltering in rock crevices through winter snow.

Family

Acanthisittidae

Group

New Zealand Wrens

Range

South Island Wren Range — Alpine zones of South Island, New Zealand

Population

≈ 2,500-9,999

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