In New Zealand, the rebirth of the Southern Takahehe, this bird was declared extinct in the 19th century

“Nine pairs of takahis were released onto the grounds of Greenstone Station at the beginning of the week,” Clap New Zealand Herald. This species, endemic to the South Island of New Zealand, was officially declared extinct in 1898.

But it was rediscovered approximately fifty years later in the country, and was first bred in captivity, before being gradually reintroduced into animal reserves.

“As of November 2022, there were only 484 takahs left in the world, and it was very rare for us to be able to observe them in their natural habitat.” Confirms Radio New Zealand.

“A globe sitting on two long feet”

The southern takahe is distinguished by its bright turquoise plumage “Extraordinary creature” Notice Watchman, Which describes:

“From the front, it is shaped almost like a perfect ball, and with its blue-green feathers, it resembles a globe perched on two long, bright red legs.”

The existence of the bird, which is 50 centimeters long and is unable to fly, dates back to the Pleistocene prehistoric era, that is, between 2.58 million years and 11,700 years BC.

This species was symbolic in Maori eyes, and was used to make coats until a few decades ago. The English title says: “The decline of takahe in the wild coincided with the decline of Māori lands, being confiscated, sold or stolen.”

Seeing the population of Southern Takahehe grow every year is a symbolic step forward for Tomai Cassidy, a member of the Otaku Runaka tribe: “[Leur] Returning to our tribe is an additional step that will allow us to reconnect these lands with their past.

Seven more birds are scheduled to be released in October 2023, in line with…‘A more ambitious goal’ Led by the New Zealand government to protect endemic species.

Watchman He remembers: “Last year, the kiwi, the country’s national emblem, was released into the landscape on the outskirts of the city for the first time in generations.”