Habitat
Bush and forest, rough farmland and dry tussockland. Adults are mainly sedentary but juveniles wander widely and are seen in farmland, orchards and urban areas.
Rarity Status
Currently this species is not classified as a rarity in this country OR information has not been updated.
Population
Estimated population is 2,500 - 9,999 (2010).
Status NT
Habitat loss through logging, egg predation by introduced Brush-tailed Possum Trichosurus vulpecula are the main threats.
For more information see BirdLife International Species Factsheet.
New Zealand Falcon (Falco novaeseelandiae) [XC53839]
by Ken George from Mapara Forest Reserve, New Zealand (call)
New Zealand Falcon (Falco novaeseelandiae) [XC776597]
by id from P\u014dhara, Golden Bay, Tasman District, Tasman, New Zealand (begging call)
Subspecies
Two forms, novaeseelandiae and pottsi, previously regarded as subspecies or separate species on size and plumage differences, but confusion with age and sex differences. Three morphologically and ecologically distinct populations, with separate distributions, not formally recognized as subspecies.
No subspecies.
Similar Species
Swamp Harrier (Circus approximans) which is much larger, with long fingered wings.
References
See References.
BirdLife International Species Factsheet