Hokīo

In New Zealand, a night-bird of evil omen whose cry, "Kakao, kakao!" is heard the night prior to battle. This hoarse cry is caused by it choking on the hair of the men who will fall in the coming battle.

The bird is known as Tara-kakao or Kakao.

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References

Sources

  • Tregear, Edward. (1891). Maori-Polynesian Comparative Dictionary. Wellington: Government Printer, pp. 79, 121, 477.
  • White, John. (1885). "Maori Customs and Superstitions." In T. W. Gudgeon, History and Doings of the Maoris from 1820 to 1840. Auckland: Brett, pp. 97-225, p. 166.
  • White, John. (1887). Ancient History of the Maori. 6 vols. Wellington: G. Didsbury, Government Printer, p. 3:17.