A Miami zoo apologizes for kiwi petting encounter that angered New Zealanders

https://www.npr.org/2023/05/25/ [login to see] /zoo-miami-kiwi-encounter-new-zealand-controversy
A zoo in Miami has apologized for offering an "encounter" in which zoo guests could physically touch a kiwi, the flightless bird that is a national symbol of New Zealand, after social media videos sparked outrage.

"On behalf of everyone at Zoo Miami, please accept our most profound and sincere apology for the stress initiated by a video on social media depicting the handling and housing of 'Paora,' the kiwi bird that is presently under our care," the zoo said in a statement issued Tuesday.

The concerns expressed "have been taken very seriously and as a result, effective immediately, the Kiwi Encounter will no longer be offered," the zoo added.

The kiwi encounter with Paora was offered as "a one of a kind experience you'll be sure to cherish forever," the zoo's website said before that encounter was removed. The kiwi encounter was previously offered four times per week.

A video advertising the encounter was posted to Zoo Miami social media accounts in March.