Kakapo
Critically EndangeredStrigops habroptilus
Visual Identification
Kakapo
Appearance
The kakapo is a large, flightless parrot with a distinctive owl-like face. Its plumage is primarily moss-green, mottled with yellow and brown, providing excellent camouflage in its forest habitat. The bird has a large, curved grey beak and strong, scaly grey feet.
Males are significantly larger than females, weighing up to 4 kg compared to females' maximum of about 1.5 kg. Both sexes have similar plumage, but males may appear slightly brighter in colouration.
Size
Length
58cm to 64cm
Wingspan
76cm to 86cm
Weight
1.3kg to 4kg
Colours
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Green
Secondary Colour
Yellow Brown
Beak Colour
Grey
Leg Colour
Grey
Habitat and Distribution
Habitats
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Distribution
Kakapos are endemic to New Zealand, historically found throughout the country's forests. Today, they are restricted to predator-free island sanctuaries, primarily Codfish Island (Whenua Hou) and Little Barrier Island (Hauturu-o-Toi).
These birds prefer diverse habitats, including coastal areas, subalpine scrublands, and podocarp and beech forests, adapting to the available environment on their sanctuary islands.
Elevation Range
Sea level to 700 meters
Climate zones
Temperate
Distribution Map
Distribution by Region
Behaviour and Ecology
Bird Attributes
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Diet
Kakapos are herbivores with a diverse diet including seeds, fruits, pollen, and plant material. They have a unique digestive system that allows them to extract maximum nutrients from fibrous plants. During breeding seasons, they rely heavily on the fruit of the rimu tree.
Behaviour
Kakapos are nocturnal and solitary, spending their days hidden in vegetation. They are excellent climbers, using their strong legs and beaks to move through trees.
Despite being flightless, kakapos can use their wings to 'parachute' from heights, allowing them to glide short distances.
Vocalisation
Kakapos have a range of vocalisations. The most distinctive is the male's low-frequency 'boom' used during breeding displays, which can travel up to 5 km. They also produce a loud 'skraark' call and various softer clicks, grunts, and squeaks for communication.
Nesting & Breeding
Kakapos have an unusual breeding system called lek breeding. Males gather in specific areas and compete for female attention through elaborate displays and booming calls. This typically occurs every 2-4 years when rimu trees produce abundant fruit.
Females nest on the ground, often in natural cavities or under dense vegetation. They lay 1-4 eggs, which are white and about 43 mm long. Nests are simple scrapes lined with plant material.
Incubation lasts about 30 days, with the female solely responsible. Chicks fledge at about 10-12 weeks but may stay with their mother for several months, reaching maturity at 4-6 years old.
Lifespan
years
The Kakapo typically lives for 40 to 80 years.
Like all birds, lifespan can be affected by factors including predation, habitat quality, disease, and access to food sources.
Conservation and Status
Global Conservation Status
Only about 200 individuals (116 mature) remain of the critically endangered kakapo.
Intensive conservation efforts, including predator-free island sanctuaries, artificial incubation, and supplementary feeding, are crucial for the species' survival. Each bird is individually named and monitored.
Birdwatching Tips
- Visit Codfish Island or Little Barrier Island with special permission
- Look for signs of feeding, such as chewed plant material or droppings
- Listen for their distinctive 'skraark' call or booming during the breeding season
- Be patient and quiet, as kakapos are shy and nocturnal
Additional Information
Quick Facts
Other names:
Owl Parrot, Night Parrot
Family:
StrigopidaePredators
Introduced mammals such as cats, stoats, and rats are the main predators of kakapos, which is why they are now confined to predator-free islands.
Did You Know?
- The kakapo is the world's only flightless parrot.
- It is also the heaviest parrot species, with males weighing up to 4 kg.
- Kakapos can live for over 80 years, making them one of the longest-lived birds.
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References
- 1
website: BirdLife International. 2018. Strigops habroptilus. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2018: e.T22685245A129751169.
View source - 2 3
report, 2018: Department of Conservation