David Mittell, age 10, Of South Williamsport, Penna.., for his question:

What is a kiwi bird?

This odd bird is a native new zealander. He seems to be covered with long, brownish gray fur, and when he sleeps, he curls into a ball like a furry cat. He has no wings or tail that you can see. But in spite of these unusual features, the kiwi is a bird.

He is about the size of a chicken, and the timid fellow walks along on a pair of large, chicken type feet. His silky coat is actually fine, feathery threads, and, just to prove he is a bird, he wears an extra long, thin bill.