ANIMALS ON THE BRINK. PART 3 - THE BUSH WREN

Matthew Lark continues a comprehensive look at some of our native birds, reptiles and insects, which are thought by most scientists to be extinct. In this episode, Matthew talks to people who have encountered New Zealand’s Bush Wren / Mātuhituhi.

Ron Ward describes the appearance and behaviour of the bush wren.
Bruce Dawson describes his 1977 sighting of the bird, the surrounding environment and the appearance of the tiny animal.
John Kendrick recounts a sighting on Mt Waipahihi in the Kaimanawa range in January 1956. He then talks about a 1965 excursion to Kaimohu Island (off Rakiura / Stewart Island).
Don Murton, wildlife officer, describes Stead’s Bush Wren which he observed at Taukihepa / Big South Cape Island before their decimation by a ship rat invasion.

Reports and records of sightings