Reality Show Participant Regrets Consuming Rare Kiwi Bird

Things got shockingly real on the reality TV show Race to Survive when one of the contestants resorted to killing and consuming an endangered bird species native to New Zealand. Authorities issued a warning afterward.

The participants had been cautioned prior that certain food options, including those protected by law, were prohibited. Spencer Jones, who disregarded this rule by killing the kiwi bird (weka), later apologized on RealityTea.com for his actions. "I made a mistake," he confessed to the website.

Despite facing challenges in surviving New Zealand's wilderness and strategizing for racing, Jones admitted that hunger got the better of them. The kiwi bird is notable for its size, brown coloring, and unique behavioral patterns. It also forms lifelong bonds with its mate.

The Department of Conservation in New Zealand took action against the TV show's producers by issuing a written warning following Jones' incident. Dylan Swain, who headed the department's inquiry into this event, conveyed to the Guardian that the production company was informed about their breach of rules and regulations.

Jones expressed regret for his actions during an episode called A Rule Was Broken when he revealed they had consumed a protected kiwi bird while under immense hunger pressure. His teammate Oliver Dev also faced disqualification from the show, which offered $500,000 to its surviving contestants.

According to New Zealand's Department of Conservation website, kiwis are elusive birds that avoid human contact and often raid nearby farms or campsites for food and other objects. The department advises against chasing them but recommends observing their movements and recovering the stolen items later.

The consequences of harming protected wildlife in New Zealand can result in up to two years imprisonment or a fine of NZ$100,000 (US$73,964). In this case, DOC's investigator noted that the unique set of circumstances surrounding fatigue and hunger among contestants led them to consider issuing a warning letter.

RealityTea.com mentioned in their coverage of Episode 4 that the show seemed hesitant to delve into graphic details but had previously emphasized that kiwis were off-limits. Despite this, they appeared frequently around survival camp throughout the season, causing disruption and temptation among contestants due to their plump appearance.

Jones addressed whether he would return for another race in an interview with USA Network's airing of Race to Survive. "It has been a difficult ending," Jones stated. He acknowledged that while he did not want to participate again in New Zealand, he might consider joining if offered the chance elsewhere and his former partner was willing to compete alongside him.