Kākāpō rising: 90 chicks swell population of the world’s heaviest parrot
Summary
The kākāpō, the world’s heaviest parrot, now has more than 300 birds for the first time in 75 years after a record breeding season triggered by a large fruiting event of a native tree in New Zealand. A total of 90 chicks were added this season, bringing the population to 325 and marking a significant success for conservation efforts.Key Facts
- The kākāpō population reached 325 birds as of September 1, the highest in 75 years.
- Ninety chicks were hatched this breeding season, the most ever recorded in one season.
- Kākāpō breed only every 2 to 4 years, triggered by the fruiting of native rimu trees.
- The species is critically endangered and was nearly extinct by the 1900s due to introduced predators.
- Conservation efforts began in 1995 when the population was just 51 birds.
- Kākāpō live 60 to 80 years, can weigh up to 4kg, and are flightless and active at night.
- Male kākāpō make a low booming sound to attract females, which can be heard up to 5km away.
- The next breeding season may happen as early as 2028, with preparation already underway.
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