Thread: Thermal photos

Originally Posted by Ben Waimata

Wow that kiwi picture is amazing. I never had any idea how good the insulation value of those feathers could be! The body show no heat at all. Does anyone know if kiwi actually have low body temperature under the feathers?

Kiwi body temp is 37-38 degC, 1-3 degC lower that most birds. They over heat very quickly if enclosed in a small space, as we learned very early on during the first kiwi recovery program in Northland in the late 70’s.