New Zealand bellbird

The New Zealand bellbird, known as korimako or makomako in Māori, is a charming songbird native to New Zealand. It is the only living member of its genus, Anthornis, and is readily identifiable by its greenish plumage. The bellbird is celebrated for its melodious, bell-like song, which is a defining feature of New Zealand's dawn chorus.

Male bellbirds exhibit an olive-green color with a subtle purplish sheen, while females are a more subdued green with a blue sheen on their heads. Both sexes have striking red eyes. Juveniles possess their own distinctive appearance. There are four subspecies of bellbirds, although one is now extinct. Historically, their population suffered due to habitat loss and the introduction of predators to the islands. Fortunately, their numbers have since rebounded.

These birds have a diverse diet that includes nectar, fruit, and insects, making them important pollinators. Bellbirds breed from September to January, laying eggs speckled with pinkish-brown spots. Their characteristic song, reminiscent of bells, is most often heard in the early morning and late evening. When alarmed, they produce a series of harsh notes.

The New Zealand bellbird is a cherished part of the country's natural heritage and an essential component of its ecosystems.