# New Zealand Bird of the Year competition

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/new-zealand-bird-of-the-year-competition
> Updated: 2026-09-20T21:07:08.000Z. Sources: 31. Developments: 2.

The karure black robin was named the 2026 Bird of the Year by the Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society of New Zealand, receiving over 26,000 votes. This victory marks a significant conservation milestone for the species, which saw its population recover from only five birds in 1980—including just one fertile female named Old Blue—to approximately 350 adults living on pest-free islands.

The species’ recovery is attributed to dedicated breeding programs involving the Department of Conservation and the Chatham Islands community. However, conservationists emphasize that the species is not yet fully saved, as current habitats are nearing capacity. Experts are now seeking to establish a third population on another predator-free island.

While the competition saw record engagement with over 105,000 total votes cast globally, organizers noted that approximately 80 percent of New Zealand’s native bird species remain at risk of extinction due to climate change, habitat loss, and introduced predators. Although the poll utilizes social media and memes to drive public engagement, officials emphasize the serious underlying message regarding biodiversity protection.

## Claims

- The karure black robin won the 2026 Bird of the Year competition. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Record participation saw 105,000 people vote in the 2026 competition. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The karure received 25,610 votes to win the title. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The karure population was reduced to just five birds in 1980. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- There are currently approximately 350 adult karure living on two pest-free islands. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Approximately 80 percent of New Zealand's native bird species are at risk of extinction. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The kākāpō finished in second place with 19,445 votes. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The kārearea, or New Zealand falcon, placed third with 17,423 votes. (corroborated by 2 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-09-20: Black robin named New Zealand Bird of the Year

The critically endangered black robin (karure) has won New Zealand’s 2026 Bird of the Year, following a record 105,000 votes in a competition organized by Forest & Bird.

30 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/karure-black-robin-wins-2026-bird-of-the-year

### 2026-09-08: Bird of the Year 2027 voting begins

Public voting has begun for the ‘Bird of the Year 2027’ title. Five species, including the raven and crane, are candidates in the competition organized by Nabu and LBV to highlight conservation issues.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bird-of-the-year-2027-voting-begins

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Cite as: New Zealand Bird of the Year competition. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/new-zealand-bird-of-the-year-competition