Codfish Island / Whenua Hou facts for kids
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Whenua Hou (Māori)
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Map of Stewart Island, with Codfish Island to the west.
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| Geography | |
| Coordinates | 46°47′S 167°38′E / 46.783°S 167.633°E |
| Total islands | 1 |
| Area | 14 km2 (5.4 sq mi) |
| Highest elevation | 250 m (820 ft) |
| Administration | |
| Region | Southland Region |
| Demographics | |
| Population | (?) |
Codfish Island is a small island in southern New Zealand. It is also known by its Māori name, Whenua Hou. The island is located west of Stewart Island/Rakiura.
Codfish Island is about 14 square kilometers (5.4 square miles) in size. Its highest point is 250 meters (820 feet) above sea level.
The English name "Codfish Island" comes from the blue cod. This fish is caught in the waters around the island. The Māori name "Whenua Hou" means "new land". Codfish Island is famous for being home to Sirocco. He is a very well-known kakapo, which is a rare type of parrot.
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Amazing Wildlife on Codfish Island
Codfish Island is a special place for birds. It is a safe home for many native New Zealand birds. This is because there are no predators like possums or rats on the island. These animals were removed in 1998.
Kakapo Sanctuary
The island is now a bird sanctuary. It is especially important for the kakapo. The kakapo is a critically endangered parrot. Most of the world's breeding kakapo live here. For example, in 2002, 24 kakapo chicks hatched on the island. In 2009 and 2016, 33 and 32 chicks hatched.
One of the most famous kakapo is Sirocco. He was born in 1997. In 2010, Sirocco became New Zealand's "Official Spokesbird for Conservation." This means he helps promote protecting nature.
Other Rare Animals
Codfish Island is also home to other rare animals. You can find southern short-tailed bats here. There are also kaka and fernbirds. Other birds include red-fronted and yellow-crowned parakeet. Pacific black ducks also live on the island. Recently, a group of yellowheads (mohua) were brought to the island.
Important Bird Area
Experts have named Codfish Island an Important Bird Area. This is because many types of seabirds breed here. These include Fiordland and yellow-eyed penguins. You can also find mottled, Cook's and Whenua Hou diving petrels.
Visiting Codfish Island
Codfish Island is a protected area. It is not open to everyone. Only scientific researchers and workers from the Department of Conservation can visit. Volunteers who help with conservation projects also come here.
The island has only one hut. It is located at Sealer's Bay in the northeast. People usually get to the island by small plane or helicopter. Landing on the island without permission is not allowed.
See also
In Spanish: Isla Codfish para niños
