The hoiho, a penguin known for its noisy calls and shy demeanor, has been crowned New Zealand’s Bird of the Year. This victory offers a ray of hope for the endangered species, as supporters believe it will bring renewed attention and support to their plight. The annual Bird of the Year vote, held by Forest & Bird, is a fierce competition, with campaigns employing tactics like meme wars, celebrity endorsements, and even tattoos to demonstrate loyalty. This year’s contest saw a remarkable turnout, with over 50,000 votes cast, reflecting the deep love for native birds in a country where nature is an integral part of life.
The hoiho, whose name translates to “noise shouter” in the Mori language, is considered the world’s rarest penguin. Found only on New Zealand’s South and Chatham Islands, as well as subantarctic islands, its population has plummeted by 78% in the past 15 years. “This spotlight couldn’t have come at a better time,” said Nicola Toki, chief executive of Forest & Bird. “This iconic penguin is disappearing from mainland Aotearoa before our eyes.” The organization highlighted the threats the hoiho faces, including drowning in fishing nets and a scarcity of food. While conservation efforts are underway, the campaign hopes to raise awareness and tangible support for the struggling species.
The hoiho’s campaign was a collaborative effort, involving wildlife groups, a museum, a brewery, and a rugby team in Dunedin, where the bird is found on mainland New Zealand. This powerful coalition made it the most influential campaign in the 2024 vote. While the hoiho secured the top spot, the contest saw intense competition from other native birds. The karure, a small black robin found only on Chatham Island, was a strong contender, with its campaign led by the student association at Victoria University of Wellington. This sparked a fierce rivalry on campus, with students in bird costumes and a meme war erupting. The karure’s comeback story, from a population of just five birds in the 1980s to over 250 thanks to conservation efforts, helped it secure second place.
The Bird of the Year campaign has become a cultural event in New Zealand, reflecting the country’s deep connection to its natural heritage. While the competition is fierce, campaign managers describe the tactics as more akin to pro wrestling, with scripted battles and a sense of community. Despite the competition, the campaign fosters a sense of camaraderie, with a focus on raising awareness and support for New Zealand’s precious birdlife.
In the end, the hoiho’s victory serves as a call to action, urging New Zealanders and the world to focus on protecting these endangered species. The vibrant campaigns and passionate support highlight the deep connection New Zealanders have with their native birds, reminding us of the vital role these creatures play in the country’s unique ecosystem.
