DNA testing has revealed two kiwi birds found dead on a Coromandel Beach were mauled by dogs.
The two breeding kiwi were found at Port Charles two months ago, but the transmitters attached to them have just returned from DNA testing.
Conservation group, Kiwis for Kiwi executive director Michelle Impey said one transmitter had been deliberately cut off, probably by the dog's owner.
She said anyone who knows the owner of the dog should get in touch with the organisation.
