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Ruru is a small nocturnal New Zealand bird. It’s also called the Morepork, or New Zealand Owl. It belongs to the owls and has the scientific name Ninox novaeseelandiae. Ruru holds a special place for many Kiwis in New Zealand culture.
The ruru’s distinctive call is one of its unique characteristics. It sounds like a repeated “more-pork.” This call can be heard in forests, rural areas and even suburban neighborhoods at night. The ruru call is synonymous with New Zealand’s night, and many love it for its haunting, mysterious quality.
Ruru owls are small, measuring 25-30 cm and weighing 150-200 g. They have a round, dark head and large, dark, eyes that are perfect for seeing in low light conditions. Their plumage is mainly brown with darker streaks, which blends perfectly with the native forest they inhabit.
These birds are extremely adaptable, and can be found in many habitats including forests, farmland and urban areas. They prefer dense vegetation and trees to roost in during the day. Ruru are territorial and tend to stay in the same place throughout their lives.
As nocturnal birds with excellent night vision, ruru are able to hunt in the darkness. Their main diet consists of insects and small mammals. They also eat birds and reptiles. Ruru are expert hunters, and have been known for catching prey larger than them, such as rats and possums.
The ruru is a key predator in New Zealand, and helps to control rodents. They are also a symbol for conservation in New Zealand, representing the importance to protect native wildlife and their environments.
In Maori culture the ruru is a very important figure and is often regarded as a protector or guardian. Hearing the ruru’s call is thought to be a sign of luck or a warning that one should pay attention to their surroundings. Maori legends and tales often portray the ruru in a wise, mystical light.
Conservation efforts are being undertaken to protect the ruru in New Zealand and ensure its survival. Deforestation and habitat loss, as well as predation from introduced predators like rats and stoats, are major threats to the ruru’s population. Organizations like the Department of Conservation are working to restore, protect and preserve the native forests in which ruru live. They also implement predator control programs to safeguard the habitats of ruru.
The ruru has captured the hearts of many New Zealanders. Its adaptability, enchanting call and cultural significance make the ruru a treasured part of New Zealand’s natural heritage. The ruru is a symbol of resilience, conservation and protection for New Zealand’s unique fauna.