The scientific name of this bird refers to its ratite genus (Apteryx) and its origin being from ‘the south’ (australis). This native New Zealand bird is a taonga, or treasure, to the Maori, who have strong cultural associations with the Kiwi. The Kiwi can live from 25 to 50 years old, however as they cannot fly away from predators, they are particularly vulnerable to crushing injuries from stoats, cats, dogs and ferrets. This rare creature is the only bird in the world with nostrils at the end of its beak. This, in addition to sensory pits, provides an incredible sense of smell and allows the Kiwi to sense prey underground.