Strigops habroptilus
Critically Endangered
Known as the 'owl parrot', the Kakapo is a unique bird native to New Zealand, notable for being the world's heaviest parrot. With its moss-green plumage and nocturnal habits, the Kakapo is a true oddity in the bird world. Despite being flightless, this bird has carved out a niche for itself in the forests and grasslands of its homeland. However, it is critically endangered with a population of just over 100, relying heavily on conservation efforts for survival.
Males and females have similar plumage
Green
Green
Yellow, Brown
Yellow, Brown
Green
Green
Short
Grey
Grey
Grey
Grey
Moss-green plumage, barred with yellow and black
Similar to adults but slightly duller
Short and rounded
Short and rounded
58cm to 64cm
Length
82cm
Wingspan
950g to 4kg
Weight
Click on an image below to see the full-size version
Booming, metallic chinging sounds
Low frequency booming, high frequency chinging, and a variety of other vocalizations
Sharp, short squawks
Nocturnal, spends the day resting in dens or hollow trees
Solitary but can be social during the breeding season
Males establish territories and defend them from other males
Non-migratory
Rarely interacts with other bird species
Leaves, Roots, Seeds
Forages on the ground and in trees
Night
Browsing and digging
Diet varies depending on season and food availability
High calcium requirement
Underground burrows or in hollow trees
Simple scrape in the ground lined with vegetation
Summer
One
White
Approximately 5cm x 4cm
1-2 eggs
Around 30 days
Approximately 10-12 weeks
Female provides all care
New Zealand
Forests and grasslands
Sea level to mountainous regions
Non-migratory
Temperate Rainforest
Temperate
Please note, this range and distribution map is a high-level overview, and doesn't break down into specific regions and areas of the countries.