Takahe

The takahē is a native of New Zealand and is also referred to as the South Island takahē or notornis. One of the rarest non-flying birds in the world, it is the largest living member of the rail family. Its population, which was formerly thought to be extinct in the wild, is currently estimated to be 418 individuals. Takahs can grow to a maximum length of 25 inches and weigh around 9.3 pounds. Takahs are large, robust birds with enormous bills that are capable of biting hard. On the head and belly, their plumage is dark blue, while on the wings and back, it is light blue and green.

They spend the summer months living in alpine grasslands and the winter months moving to lower altitudes. Takahes can live up to 18 years in the wild and are solitary and fiercely territorial. They primarily eat grasses, shoots, and insects, with snow grass being their favorite food.