“154 Kakapo, Strigops Habroptilus, the extraordinary New Zealand night parrot, are alive today. A second ago, in evolutionary time, there were hundreds of thousands. This bird, and the hugely dedicated team working to ensure they survive, need your support. Publicity helps generate this support.”

— Janet Luxton

Kākāpō (also known as owl parrot or night parrot)

Habitat

The kākāpō had a former range that extended across all islands of New Zealand but have been restricted to a small population in Fiordland. They originally were able to survive in a wide range of habitats, but now occur on the single forested island.

Family Life

The kākāpō had a former range that extended across all islands of New Zealand but have been restricted to a small population in Fiordland. They originally were able to survive in a wide range of habitats, but now occur on the single forested island.

Lifespan

Their life expectancy is over 90 years.

Hunting Habits/Diet

Kākāpō are herbivores. They prefer leaves, buds, flowers, fern fronds, bark, fruit and seeds, among other types of vegetation. They are seasonal eaters and will forage on the ground and in the trees, though they have to climb rather than fly.

Population

109 mature individuals were counted in 2016. Their IUCN status is Critically Endangered.

Fun Facts

The kākāpō, also known as the owl parrot or night parrot, is the only parrot that cannot fly, perhaps due to the fact that it weighs up to nine pounds. It is one of the longest lived bird and quite friendly, approaching people to climb on them and preen them.

Why are they Endangered?

Human intervention has been one of the most detrimental factors to the survival of the kākāpō. Domesticated cats were responsible for nearly half of their deaths and non-native species often prey on eggs and chicks. Low genetic diversity due to inbreeding has resulted in disease and low fertility.

Status

Critically Endangered

Sources

https://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2010/09/100929-birds-body-odor-rats-new-zealand-science-environment/?_ga=2.196382764.1294284717.1519431808-1442753434.1519431808
http://animals.sandiegozoo.org/animals/parrot
http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/22685245/0
http://www.eol.org/pages/311770/details
http://Kākāpō recovery.org.nz/
http://nzbirdsonline.org.nz/species/Kākāpō
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kākāpō
https://www.wired.com/2014/03/creature-feature-10-fun-facts-Kākāpō /