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Notornis, 10 (4), 196-196

R.B. Sibson (1963)

Article Type: Article








Breeding cycle of the North Island weka

Notornis, 10 (6), 300-302

A.L.K. Carroll (1963)

Article Type: Paper

From nesting records and gonad measurements a study was made of the breeding cycle. It appears that, although breeding occurs throughout the year, it reaches a peak during winter and early spring (June to September). Wekas commonly raise more than one brood in a year; up to four have been recorded. The average number of eggs in a clutch is 3-4, although 5 or 6 are not abnormal.








Sexing of wekas

Notornis, 10 (6), 302-303

A.L.K. Carroll (1963)

Article Type: Paper

Wekas may be sexed with a reasonable degree of accuracy by measuring culmen length and body weight. Culmen lengths in adult males commonly range from 44 mm to 51 mm and in females from 42 mm to 44 mm. Males usually weigh between 900 gm and 1000 gm and females between 670 gm and 806 gm. Juvenile birds may be confused with adult females but are usually distinguishable by the dark colour of their eyes and legs.