Apteryx
a genus of birds, the typical one of the family apterygida. Two species are known the A. australis and A. mantelli, both from New Zealand. The natives call the former Kiwikiwi, which is an imitation of their peculiar cry. The A. australis is somewhat less in size than an ordinary goose. It runs when pursued, shelters itself in holes, and defends itself with its long bill; but unable as it is to fly, it is destined to become extinct.