New Zealand falcon claims victory in controversial bird election

In New Zealand, the annual Bird of the Year competition concluded today with the kākārearea, or New Zealand falcon, taking the title. This year marked the 20th edition of the contest, organized by the conservation group Forest & Bird. The kākārearea won with a remarkable 21% of the total 75,439 votes cast online, confirming its place not only as a formidable predator but also as a beloved bird among the country's avian enthusiasts. This victory aligns with a growing trend in the contest, which has seen an increase in voter participation over the years. The Bird of the Year competition serves as more than just a fun event; it plays a crucial role in raising awareness for New Zealand’s native bird species, many of whom are facing serious conservation challenges. Recent statistics indicate that over 80% of native birds are classified as being in trouble. The contest encourages public engagement, with campaign managers for various birds employing creative strategies to attract votes, including memes and promotional events. In some cases, well-known personalities have participated, leading to spikes in voter turnout. This year's campaign was made particularly memorable by community involvement. Birds ranging from cheeky parrots to adorable puffball robins were all vying for the top spot, but the kākārearea's unique characteristics, including its impressive flying abilities and predatory nature, captured the public's imagination. The falcon's status as a significant predator, capable of flying over 200 km/h (124 mph), further contributed to its appeal. Forest & Bird emphasizes the urgent need for conservation awareness through such playful competitions, as many bird species stand on the brink of decline amid threats from introduced predators. Over the years, the popularity of the Bird of the Year contest has grown substantially, evolving from a small event with less than 900 votes in its inaugural year to a national phenomenon. In 2023, a record was set when John Oliver campaigned for the pūteketeke water bird, leading to an unusual burst in interest and participation. Moving forward, the conservation group plans to not only celebrate the winning species but also address critical conservation issues through musical tributes, with songwriter Troy Kingi composing a dedicated song for this year's winner. The event showcases not only New Zealand's rich avian diversity but also the pressing need for continued environmental efforts to preserve these unique species.