Listen to the Morepork
Recording by Andrew McCafferty · xeno-canto XC638197
Morepork
Māori name: Ruru
Scientific name: Ninox novaeseelandiae
Not Threatened
The morepork is New Zealand's only surviving native owl, named for its distinctive two-note call that echoes through the bush at night. A skilled nocturnal hunter, it feeds on large insects, small birds, lizards, and rodents. The ruru holds deep significance in Māori culture as a watchful guardian and a bearer of omens. Listen for its call on still nights in Pāuanui.
Did you know?
The morepork can rotate its head almost 270 degrees and has asymmetrical ears, allowing it to pinpoint sounds with extraordinary precision in complete darkness.
Threats
Stoats and possums raid morepork nests in tree hollows. Introduced predators also compete for the small prey the morepork depends on.