The kiwi bird is the national symbol of New Zealand and one of the natives’ favorite animals. The popularity of the kiwi bird has mainly to do with the numerous curiosities related to it. For instance, the kiwi bird is the only known bird in the world to have external nostrils at the end of its bill. Also, the kiwi bird lays down huge eggs, which are enormous in comparison to its small body. The kiwi bird mates for life, its monogamy being strange but very interesting at the same time. Nevertheless, the kiwi bird female is the ‘boss’, as it is larger and usually dominates the male.

Despite all these amazing facts, the kiwi bird is endangered and facing many threats and predators. This may come as a surprise for most people, but pet dogs are actually a real danger to the kiwi bird. Pet dogs are going crazy whenever they spot a kiwi bird, as their scent is very appealing and they represent an attractive pray. A picture of 60 kiwi birds killed by pet dogs has been circulating on the Internet for quite some time now, pointing out to the danger that the kiwi bird is facing due to pet dogs. Do not just assume that because your pet dog is cute and fuzzy it does not represent a threat to the kiwi bird.

In fact, recent studies have shown that pet dogs are far more dangerous to the kiwi bird than hunting dogs or farm dogs. This is because pet dogs are not under control, so owners will have a hard time controlling their dogs whenever they spot a kiwi bird. Even if the dog is small in size, the kiwi bird will still be a target, as even the smallest nudge can crush the bird’s chest and lead to its death. This is why you should understand the risk that the kiwi bird is facing due to pet dogs. You should always keep them on a leash and not let them run freely wherever they want to, because killing a kiwi bird is not something they can help doing, but it is a real shame.