Ruru

Ruru group asked some great questions about their bird. Here is an interesting clip for you to watch.

Quick facts

• Morepork are found in forests New Zealand.
• Morepork are speckled brown with yellow eyes set in a dark mask. They have a short tail.
• The females are bigger than the males.
• Head to tail they measure around 29cm and the average weight is about 175g.
• They have very good hearing and don't like light.

They can turn their head a long way.

Nocturnal birds of prey

Feeding

• Morepork are nocturnal, hunting at night for beetles, weta, moths and spiders. They will also take small birds, rats and mice.
• They fly silently. They catch prey using large sharp talons or beak.

Nesting and babies

• Morepork nest in holes in trees or among rocks and roots.
• The female can lay up to three eggs, but generally two, usually between September and November.
• The female keeps the eggs warm for about 20 to 30 days during which time the male brings in food for her.
• Once the chicks hatch, the female stays mainly on the nest until the owlets are fully feathered.