Bulford Kiwi, White chalk geoglyph on Beacon Hill, Wiltshire, England
The Bulford Kiwi is a large white chalk figure carved into a hillside in Wiltshire showing a bird from New Zealand. The design cuts through the chalk layers on the slope and remains visible from several kilometers away.
New Zealand soldiers created this carving in 1919 while waiting to return home after the First World War. The work emerged from the energy and camaraderie of troops stationed in the region during a time of uncertainty.
The name references the flightless bird from New Zealand, marking the presence of soldiers from that nation who were stationed here. This image became a symbol of home for troops far away.
The site sits on an open hillside and is accessible year-round, though it looks best from viewing points nearby rather than close up. Wear sturdy footwear since the ground is uneven and there is no direct path to the chalk figure itself.
During the Second World War, authorities covered the white chalk figure with leaf mold to hide it from German aircraft. After the war the figure was restored and has remained visible as a landmark in the landscape ever since.
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