An albino
kiwi, the national symbol of New Zealand, found on the North Island has
evoked much interest across that nation.
The kiwi, named
Rod, was found by a hunter in a paddock near Wanganui, TV New Zealand reported.
The last sighting of an albino kiwi was in 1850 and was recorded in an
oil sketch.
When found,
Rod was severely dehydrated and underweight. His eyes are infected which
may leave him partially blind.
The rare, flightless
bird is being cared for by Massey University veterinarian Dr Clare Green,
who says the Kiwi is making good progress.
"He will go
into a captive facility as part of a breeding program," said Green. "In
a rare breed, this blonde kiwi is the rarest."
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Copyright 2005 by United
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