Pneumoconiosis in the Captive New Zealand Kiwi

Abstract

Pneumoconiosis characterised by focal accumulations of dust-laden macrophages in the bronchial walls of lungs was found in 16 captive kiwis. The dust was shown to contain a large proportion of silica, some iron and probable plant material. The condition appears to be associated with dry, dusty aviaries. It was not seen in free-living kiwis. The characteristic food-seeking habits of the kiwi and the unique anatomical location of the external nares at the distal extremity of the beak probably predispose this bird to the disease.