The Weka or WoodhenGallirallus australis is a flightless bird species of the rail family. It is endemic to New Zealand especially the South Island. Weka are sturdy brown birds, about the size of a chicken. As omnivores, they feed mainly on invertebrates and fruit. The relatively large, reddish-brown beak is about 2.0 in long, stout and tapered, and used as a weapon. The pointed tail is near-constantly being flicked, a sign of unease characteristic of the rail family. Photo 2549 was taken at the Rainbow Springs Nature Park. All the other photos were taken at the Otorohanga Kiwi House Zoo.