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AROUND THE WORLD 3: New Zealand Mascot Born In D.C.

The National Zoological Park in Washington, D.C., welcomed a new member to the flock on February 13. On that day, a North Island brown kiwi was hatched at the zoo, weighing in at about 17 ounces (476 grams). This is only the second time the endangered New Zealand mascot was born in captivity.

The kiwi is a unique bird, said senior bird keeper Kathy Brader. In an interview with National Geographic, Brader said, "Whatever you know about other birds, throw it out the window. Kiwi are very different. They lay eggs and have feathers, and other than that, they just aren't like other birds."

The kiwi hatches from a jumbo-sized egg, about the same size as an ostrich egg. Unlike other birds that use a special egg tooth to chip out of the egg, kiwis kick their way out. Kiwis are also unique because their nostrils are located at the top end of their beak.

Kiwis are flightless birds. They do not see very well. Instead, they have a strong sense of smell, which helps them find food at night. The male kiwi call sounds like the word "kiwi."

People in New Zealand have not only made the kiwi their mascot, but they also refer to themselves as kiwis.

--Written by Teresa Liao

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