Kiwi and Dogs: Saving New Zealand’s National Treasures
Introduction
In New Zealand, the kiwi bird isn’t just another species—it’s an icon. Treasured as a taonga (sacred) species by Māori and a symbol of national pride for all Kiwis, this flightless bird holds a special place in the country’s heart. However, the relationship between kiwi and dogs is fraught with danger, as there’s a threat lurking in plain sight: wandering dogs.
Dogs, cherished pets for many, pose an unexpected and often underestimated risk to kiwi populations. This blog dives into the unique vulnerabilities of kiwi birds, the role dogs play in their endangerment, and why public participation is vital. By focusing on the relationship between kiwi and dogs, we can make meaningful strides in protecting both species.
Understanding the Problem
Kiwi and Dogs Interaction
Kiwi birds are built differently from other birds—they can’t fly, and their anatomy leaves them defenseless. Without a sternum and with weak chest and wing muscles, even a playful dog can accidentally cause fatal injuries to these gentle creatures. Their strong scent and distinct calls make them easy targets for dogs, who naturally act on their instincts.
As Lessa et al. (2016) observed, dog attacks aren’t always about predation. Sometimes, it’s as simple as a nudge or bite from a curious dog that leads to devastating results for the kiwi. Sadly, kiwi haven’t evolved defenses to deal with mammalian predators like dogs, making them especially vulnerable.
Statistics on Impact
The impact of wandering dogs on kiwi populations is both staggering and deeply concerning. Between 1990 and 2021, dogs were directly responsible for 33% of reported kiwi deaths in Northland. An additional 60 cases were suspected to involve dogs. These numbers are just the tip of the iceberg, as many incidents likely go unreported.
More recently, the situation has worsened. Over a six-month span in 2023, there were 23 kiwi deaths linked to dogs in Northland alone, with seven of these occurring within just two weeks (Macaskill et al., 2025). This alarming trend reinforces the urgent need for stronger conservation efforts.
Urbanization’s Role
Urban sprawl is making things worse. As towns and cities expand, so do dog populations, leading to an increasing overlap between kiwi habitats and human settlements. Peri-urban areas—those just outside cities—are particularly dangerous for kiwi because they’re hotspots for wandering dogs.
The study by Macaskill et al. (2025) shows that these areas see significantly higher kiwi fatalities. Urbanization doesn’t just bring dogs closer to kiwi—it also disrupts habitats, reducing the safe spaces available for these already fragile birds.
By addressing these issues, we can take the first steps toward ensuring a future where kiwi and dogs can coexist peacefully.
Kiwi and Dogs: Why Dog Welfare Matters
Looking at the Bigger Picture
When we think about keeping kiwi safe, the first thought might not be about protecting dogs, but the two are closely connected. Ensuring dogs are well cared for and kept under control is key to safeguarding kiwi populations. According to Macaskill et al. (2025), a well-looked-after dog is less likely to roam into kiwi habitats, meaning fewer accidental encounters. It’s not just about restricting dogs—it’s about creating a win-win situation where both kiwi and dogs thrive.
When dogs roam, they’re at risk too. They can get injured, starve, or even catch diseases. By prioritizing dog welfare, we not only protect our furry friends but also give kiwi birds a better chance to survive. It’s an approach that benefits everyone involved. Communities that focus on dog welfare alongside conservation goals tend to see stronger support for their initiatives. After all, nobody wants to see either kiwi or dogs in harm’s way.
Kiwi and Dogs: Why Roaming Hurts Dogs
Let’s break this down further using the Five Domains of Animal Welfare:
- Nutrition: A wandering dog can’t rely on regular feeding schedules, leaving it vulnerable to starvation and dehydration.
- Physical Environment: Roaming exposes dogs to traffic, dangerous terrains, and harsh weather conditions.
- Health: Dogs on the loose often come into contact with other animals, increasing their risk of injury or disease.
- Behavioral Interactions: Loneliness or conflicts with other dogs can cause immense stress.
- Mental State: Prolonged wandering can lead to anxiety, fear, or even depression in dogs (Mellor et al., 2020).
These factors don’t just harm the dogs—they indirectly harm kiwi too. A stressed, hungry, or injured dog is more unpredictable and more likely to stray into areas where kiwi are vulnerable. Keeping dogs healthy and happy goes hand in hand with keeping kiwi safe.
Engaging with the Community
Dog owners hold the key to solving this problem, and involving them is a game-changer. As Macaskill et al. (2025) point out, people are much more likely to support conservation efforts when they also focus on protecting their pets. For example, a campaign that says “Keeping your dog safe also keeps kiwi safe” resonates far more with dog owners than one that solely emphasizes kiwi conservation.
Simple steps, like educating dog owners on fencing their yards, using leashes during walks, and understanding local reporting procedures, can make all the difference. These small actions not only prevent dogs from roaming into kiwi habitats but also foster a sense of shared responsibility among community members.
Kiwi and Dogs: Reporting Wandering Dogs
Taking Action to Save Kiwi and Dogs
One of the simplest ways to protect kiwi—and keep dogs safe—is to report wandering dogs to the authorities. Reporting acts as a quick, effective way to prevent harm before it happens. Local councils can step in to ensure the dog is returned to its owner or safely managed, protecting both the dog and the wildlife it might encounter.
According to Aley and Neff (2021), reporting wandering dogs ranked as the most effective behavior for protecting both kiwi and dogs. This isn’t just about taking action for the environment—it’s about taking action for everyone’s benefit. The data shows that reporting works, but making people aware of its importance is key.
Kiwi and Dogs: Why Reporting is a Priority
In their study, Aley and Neff (2021) analyzed behaviors that have the greatest impact on conservation and dog welfare. Reporting wandering dogs came out on top because it addresses two major issues:
- It directly prevents dogs from entering kiwi habitats, reducing the risk of deadly encounters.
- It keeps dogs from harm, such as traffic accidents or injuries.
When members of the public report a wandering dog, they help protect both species at once. It’s a simple act, but its ripple effects are profound.
What Holds People Back?
Despite its importance, reporting isn’t always easy for everyone. Macaskill et al. (2025) highlight common reasons people don’t report roaming dogs:
- Uncertainty: Some people aren’t sure whether a dog is truly unaccompanied.
- Trust Issues: Worries about how authorities will handle the reported dog often stop people from taking action.
- Lack of Knowledge: Many people simply don’t know the process of reporting or who to contact.
- Fear of the Outcome: Concerns about what happens to captured dogs, like euthanasia, discourage reporting.
Overcoming these barriers is crucial. Campaigns need to educate the public about how reporting works and reassure them that reported dogs are treated humanely.
Making Reporting Easier
Encouraging reporting starts with raising awareness. Promotional campaigns can drive the message home by showing how small actions like reporting can make a big difference. Macaskill et al. (2025) recommend focusing on the connection between dog welfare and kiwi protection. Here’s how campaigns can work:
- Educate: Use examples to show how kiwi anatomy makes them especially vulnerable to even non-aggressive dogs.
- Empathize: Highlight the risks dogs face while roaming, like traffic accidents or starvation, to appeal to dog owners.
- Simplify the Process: Provide clear instructions on how to report a roaming dog and who to contact.
- Reassure: Build trust by explaining how local authorities handle reported dogs with care.
Through awareness and engagement, communities can create an environment where reporting becomes second nature. By protecting dogs, we protect kiwi too—and that’s a future worth striving for.
Why Dog Welfare Matters
A Bigger Picture: Protecting Dogs Protects Kiwi
When we talk about protecting kiwi birds, it’s easy to focus solely on conservation efforts. But did you know that keeping dogs safe and well cared for is a vital piece of the puzzle? Healthy, happy dogs are less likely to roam, and fewer roaming dogs mean safer habitats for kiwi. As Macaskill et al. (2025) point out, safeguarding dogs plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation. It’s a holistic approach—what’s good for dogs can also be great for kiwi.
Roaming puts dogs themselves in danger. They face traffic accidents, malnutrition, exposure to diseases, and even conflicts with other animals. By prioritizing dog welfare, communities not only protect their pets but also reduce the risk to vulnerable kiwi populations. This dual focus creates a ripple effect of benefits for both species.
Why Roaming Harms Dogs
To truly understand the importance of dog welfare, let’s look at the Five Domains of Animal Welfare by Mellor et al. (2020). This model highlights five areas where roaming can negatively impact dogs:
| Domain | How Roaming Harms Dogs |
|---|---|
| 1. Nutrition | Dogs often struggle to find food and clean water, leading to malnutrition and dehydration. |
| 2. Physical Environment | Exposure to traffic, extreme weather, and unsafe surroundings increases the risk of injury or death. |
| 3. Health | Wandering dogs are at greater risk of diseases, parasites, and untreated injuries. |
| 4. Behavioral Interactions | Social isolation or aggressive encounters with other animals cause stress and fear. |
| 5. Mental State | Prolonged roaming can lead to anxiety, depression, and overall emotional distress in dogs. |
When a dog is well-cared for and secure, it’s less likely to wander. This means fewer dog-kiwi interactions, fewer kiwi deaths, and a safer environment for both species. Focusing on dog welfare isn’t just a side benefit—it’s central to effective kiwi conservation.
Engaging the Community to Act
Dog owners play a vital role in this equation. When owners understand that taking care of their pets also protects wildlife, they’re more motivated to act. Macaskill et al. (2025) emphasize that campaigns focusing on both dog welfare and kiwi conservation are far more effective than those addressing conservation alone. By connecting these two causes, communities can inspire action across a wider audience.
Simple changes make a big difference. Fencing properties, walking dogs on leashes, and monitoring pets’ activities can significantly reduce the risks of roaming. Public education campaigns that show the links between kiwi and dogs—how both depend on responsible ownership—can inspire owners to step up. As seen in past campaigns targeting cats, focusing on pet welfare resonates deeply with people. Why not extend that same success to dogs?
Section 3: Reporting Wandering Dogs
Why Reporting is Key
If you spot a wandering dog, reporting it to local authorities may seem like a small act. But it’s actually one of the most impactful ways to protect both kiwi and dogs. According to Aley and Neff (2021), reporting is the single most effective behavior for conservation efforts. By alerting authorities, you help remove potential threats from kiwi habitats while also ensuring the safety of the roaming dog.
Think about it—your report could save a kiwi from harm and a dog from injury or starvation. It’s a straightforward way for anyone, dog owner or not, to contribute to both conservation and animal welfare.
Why Reporting Matters Most
In their behavior prioritization study, Aley and Neff (2021) analyzed the impact of various actions on kiwi and dog safety. Reporting wandering dogs emerged as the top priority because:
- It immediately reduces the risk of dog-kiwi encounters.
- It ensures lost or roaming dogs are safely returned to their owners or provided care.
- It’s easy for the public to participate—one report can make a big difference.
Let’s break down how reporting stands out compared to other conservation methods:
| Behavior | Impact on Kiwi | Impact on Dogs |
|---|---|---|
| Reporting Wandering Dogs | Prevents potential harm to kiwi and removes threats | Ensures safety from traffic, injuries, or starvation |
| Restricting Dog Roaming | Lowers kiwi mortality in fenced areas | Improves dog safety and well-being |
| Awareness Campaigns | Builds public understanding of kiwi risks | Motivates better care and monitoring of pets |
Barriers to Reporting
Despite its simplicity, many people hesitate to report wandering dogs. Macaskill et al. (2025) uncovered several reasons:
| Barrier | Description |
|---|---|
| Uncertainty | Not being sure if a dog is truly wandering or just temporarily loose. |
| Distrust of Authorities | Concerns about how animal control will handle captured dogs. |
| Lack of Awareness | Not knowing the process or who to contact for reporting. |
| Fear of Outcomes | Worries about what might happen to the dog after it’s reported, such as euthanasia. |
To overcome these barriers, we need campaigns that reassure the public about humane treatment and explain how reporting works. Transparency and education are key to increasing trust in local authorities and empowering people to take action.
Solutions Through Awareness
Promotional campaigns can bridge the gap and encourage more people to report wandering dogs. Here’s what effective strategies could look like:
- Highlight Real Stories: Share examples of how reporting saved kiwi lives or reunited dogs with their owners.
- Show the Science: Explain the kiwi’s vulnerability, emphasizing that even “friendly” dogs pose risks.
- Make it Easy: Provide simple, step-by-step guides on how to report, complete with contact information for local councils.
- Address Concerns: Reassure the public that reported dogs will be treated humanely and responsibly.
By focusing on both education and emotional engagement, these campaigns can inspire people to act. Reporting becomes less of a burden and more of a shared community responsibility.
The Power of Reporting
Reporting wandering dogs isn’t just about preventing harm—it’s about creating a safer environment for both kiwi and pets. It’s an opportunity for every individual to make a meaningful impact. When you report a roaming dog, you’re not just helping an animal in need—you’re protecting New Zealand’s most iconic bird. It’s a small act that leads to big changes.
The Role of Science
The I3 Framework: Understanding Why People Act
Why do some people report wandering dogs while others don’t? It’s not just about awareness—it’s about their level of involvement and motivation. That’s where the I3 Framework, explored in Macaskill et al. (2025), comes into play. This model breaks down how people respond to interventions based on two key factors: how much they care about the outcome (like protecting kiwi or dog welfare) and how involved they feel with the act itself (reporting roaming dogs).
Imagine four types of people:
- Highly Involved in Both the Cause and Action: They care deeply about saving kiwi and ensuring dog welfare, and they’re likely to report wandering dogs without hesitation.
- Caring About the Cause but Not the Action: These individuals are passionate about protecting kiwi and dogs but don’t see reporting as part of the solution.
- Low Involvement Overall: They don’t feel strongly about kiwi or dog safety and likely won’t take action.
- Focused on Reporting Alone: Rare, but these people are engaged with the act of reporting while not as concerned about broader outcomes.
By understanding these groups, we can tailor campaigns to motivate people where they’re at—whether it’s raising awareness about kiwi safety or simplifying the process of reporting wandering dogs.
Insights from the Study
One fascinating finding in Macaskill et al. (2025) is how attitudes align with involvement. Most respondents cared deeply about protecting kiwi and dogs, but their engagement with reporting varied significantly.
Here’s what the study uncovered:
- High Involvement Groups: These respondents were the most likely to report wandering dogs. They believed that dog roaming was dangerous not just for kiwi but also for the dogs themselves, which strengthened their motivation to act.
- Low Involvement Groups: While many in this category cared about dog and kiwi welfare, they hadn’t considered reporting as an important tool. Statements like “I haven’t put much thought into it” were common in this group.
Understanding these attitudes helps us design interventions that connect the dots for less-engaged individuals. For example, highlighting the direct link between reporting and dog safety might resonate more with those who don’t initially see how it benefits kiwi conservation.
Practical Recommendations
Data-driven insights pave the way for smarter campaigns and community actions. Based on the study findings, here are some practical strategies to increase reporting:
- Tailored Messaging: For highly involved individuals, emphasize the positive impact their actions have on kiwi and dog welfare. Use reminders and self-regulation tips to reinforce their reporting habits.
- Build Awareness: For those less engaged with the act of reporting, explain why it’s crucial. Campaigns could focus on how reporting benefits not just kiwi but also dogs, appealing to emotional and practical concerns.
- Make Reporting Simple: Remove barriers like complex processes or unclear instructions. Providing easy online tools or helpline numbers can make reporting more accessible.
- Reassure the Public: Address common fears, such as concerns about the humane treatment of reported dogs, by highlighting the role of animal control in safely returning or caring for these pets.
When communities understand the importance of reporting—and when it’s easy for them to do so—the result is better protection for both kiwi and dogs. Science shows us the way; now it’s time to act.
Conclusion
Recap: Addressing Wandering Dogs Protects All
Wandering dogs are a double-edged problem—they threaten New Zealand’s iconic kiwi birds, and they face dangers themselves. Addressing this issue isn’t about choosing one over the other; it’s about protecting both species. By focusing on public actions like reporting, we can reduce kiwi deaths while ensuring the safety of roaming dogs. It’s an approach that truly benefits everyone.
The Power of Community
At the heart of this effort is community action. Whether it’s pet owners keeping their dogs secure, wildlife enthusiasts promoting conservation, or individuals reporting roaming dogs, everyone has a role to play. Change happens when people work together, guided by science and driven by care for their environment and animals.
Kiwi and Dogs: A Shared Future
The relationship between kiwi and dogs symbolizes a greater challenge: finding harmony between human activities, pets, and the natural world. By embracing science-backed solutions like the I3 Framework and focusing on simple actions like reporting wandering dogs, we can build a safer future for both kiwi and dogs. Let’s take these steps today for a brighter tomorrow.
Reference: Macaskill, A.C., Kaine, G., & Aley, J.P. (2025). Reporting Wandering Dogs to Protect Kiwi and Dogs: New Zealanders’ Involvement, Attitudes, and Beliefs. Conservation, 5(10). https://doi.org/10.3390/conservation5010010.
License: This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0), allowing unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction, as long as the original authors and source are credited. For details, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/.