Stitchbird Stitchbird

1. Male's black head and yellow chest band; female's overall brown plumage

2. Distinctive white wing bar visible in both sexes

3. Energetic movement and habit of cocking tail upwards

Stitchbirds have a complex social structure and unique mating system. They're the only birds known to mate face-to-face. Their diet includes nectar, fruit, and insects. Breeding occurs in spring and summer, with females laying up to four clutches per season. They face threats from habitat loss and introduced predators, particularly rats. Conservation efforts include intensive predator control and supplementary feeding at release sites.

Stitchbirds are now found only in predator-free sanctuaries. Key locations include Tiritiri Matangi Island near Auckland, Zealandia in Wellington, and Maungatautari in Waikato. Look for them in mature native forest, often in the mid-canopy. They're most active during the day, particularly in the morning. Listen for their high-pitched 'stitch' call, which gave them their English name. Tip: Visit a sanctuary with supplementary feeding stations, where stitchbirds often congregate.

Known as hihi in te reo Māori, the stitchbird holds cultural significance as a taonga (treasure) species. It was once widespread across the North Island but declined rapidly after European settlement. Its near-extinction and subsequent recovery through conservation efforts make it a symbol of both the fragility and resilience of New Zealand's unique birdlife. The stitchbird's story highlights the importance of predator-free sanctuaries in preserving our native species.