Zoo Miami's director has given an update on beloved kiwi Paora, announcing ground will be broken on his new enclosure in the New Year.
The video of Paora the kiwi being mishandled at Zoo Miami ruffled the feathers of New Zealanders and gained international attention in May this year.
In an update this morning, Zoo Miami's Ron Magill told Breakfast that Paora was "doing really well".
"As a matter of fact, maybe a little too well," he laughed, "we actually had to put him on a bit of a diet as he was turning into a bit of a 'chunkster' for the holidays here."
Magill revealed construction on Paora's new habitat will begin January 8, 2024.
"We finally got through all the government red tape," he joked.
He applauded presenter Jenny-May Clarkson's "passion" during the Bird of the Century campaign, including dressing up as the national icon.
"Seeing you in that wonderful kiwi outfit the last time we spoke was one of the highlights of my year," Mcgill laughed.
"I really respect your passion and your protection for wildlife, we need more people like you, to make people accountable."
He admitted Zoo Miami made a "big mistake" with Paora and the goal was to make better on that mistake.
Magill said it's been a "very busy spring period" for the animals at the zoo, with the recent birth of a new Sumatran tiger cub, a species that is critically endangered.
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