The family Apterygidae, commonly known as kiwis, belongs to the order Apterygiformes. Kiwis are flightless, nocturnal birds endemic to New Zealand, and are notable for their small size, long slender bills, and highly developed sense of smell, which is unusual among birds. They have strong, muscular legs adapted for running and digging, and their feathers are hair-like, providing camouflage in forest and scrub habitats. Kiwis are primarily insectivorous, feeding on invertebrates, seeds, and fruit. Due to habitat loss and introduced predators, many kiwi species are considered threatened, making them iconic symbols of New Zealand’s unique biodiversity.