Bangkok--Oct 11--eTurboNews
The 100th chick to be hatched at Kiwi Encounter recently made its way into the world, reinforcing the success of this specialist facility since it was opened in 2004. Kiwi Encounter is located at Rainbow Springs in Rotorua.
Kiwi Encounter is part of “Operation Nest Egg”, a kiwi recovery programme.
At hatching on Sunday morning (02 October) Niglet weighted 338 grams and today has passed its health check with flying colours. The kiwi is currently being nourished by its yoke, absorbed at hatch, but will start light food over the next few days. The sex of Niglet is currently unknown until DNA tests are performed.
The egg arrived at Kiwi Encounter on 23rd September along with another from the same clutch. Niglet’s sibling was hatched today (07 October), the 106th hatching. The sibling, known as ‘Nomad’ and Niglet will be released back into their natural environment when they reach 900 grams.
In total there are 30 eggs incubating at Kiwi Encounter with a further 22 chicks in various stages of protective care.
Kiwi Encounter incorporates a working hatchery and nursery, nocturnal area, and outdoor enclosure which are all open to visitors. Kiwi survival increases significantly for birds hatched and raised at Kiwi Encounter, before being released into the wild. A monitoring programme is in place for all released kiwi.
Kiwi Encounter was official opened on 03 December 2004 by the Hon. Mark Burton, Minister of Tourism. It had commenced operations in April of that year.
For more information, please contact
[email protected]
http://www.travelwirenews.com/medie End.