Poisoned kaka back in the bush

HOME AGAIN: Zealandia's Raewyn Empson and zoo vet Janelle Ward free the young kaka. By ROBERT KITCHIN/ The Dominion PostA young kaka found paralysed and near death in a Wellington gutter has been nursed back to health and returned to the wild.

The gravely ill young female from Zealandia Karori Wildlife Sanctuary was found in a Kelburn gutter about a fortnight ago by two passers-by, who took her to a local vet.

The kaka was taken to the animal hospital at Wellington Zoo where she showed signs of neurological damage but no obvious injuries.

"From the clinical signs we suspected a heavy metal poisoning and she responded very well to our treatment," zoo vet Janelle Ward said.

Subsequent blood tests indicated raised zinc levels and it was assumed she had suffered zinc poisoning.

"Luckily, the X-rays showed she did not have any metal fragments in her intestinal tract."

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Release of kaka brings joy, hope

A newly-released kaka native parrot explores its new home at the Orokonui Ecosanctuary. Photo by Stephen Jaquiery. The release of six kaka at the Orokonui Ecosanctuary is a step towards recapturing days when huge flocks of native birds winged their way across Otago skies, staff say.

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NZ teen parrots wreak havoc, vandalize nest boxes

Preening Kākā at Nga Manu reserve near Waikanae. Photo: SidPixWELLINGTON, New Zealand - A gang of unruly teenage bush parrots have wrought havoc at a bird sanctuary in New Zealand by using their powerful beaks to destroy nest boxes.

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