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Animal profile

Weka

Gallirallus australis

AvesForest, forest edge, scrub, grassland and coastal marginsVulnerable

Field profile

The weka is a sturdy, flightless brown rail about the size of a chicken, with a strong bill and bold, inquisitive habits. It is an omnivore that takes fruit, invertebrates, eggs, lizards and carrion. Populations fluctuate dramatically, crashing in some regions while thriving in others.

Scope note

This is an editorial profile, not a diagnostic field-identification guide or a substitute for current conservation assessments. Follow the cited sources on each fact for the evidence trail.

Published field notes

2026-08-15

Weka

The protected weka raids other birds' nests

Weka are declining across parts of New Zealand and are protected. They are also capable nest raiders, taking eggs and chicks of seabirds and other natives, which has led conservation managers to remove weka from some islands they were introduced to.

Read with evidence →

Weka | Daily Animal Facts