10 ~ Kakapo~

More about 10 ~ Kakapo~

10) Kakapo - Strigops habroptila (New Zealand) -CR (conservation-managed population ~hundreds).

Main threats/note: Predation by introduced mammals historically; now protected with hands-on conservation (population small but growing under management).

Scientific name: Strigops habroptila

Status: Critically Endangered (CR) - recovered from near-extinction thanks to intensive management.

Lifespan: 50-90 years (long-lived).

Reproduction: Lek breeding tied to mast cycles; low reproductive rate.

Diet: Herbivorous- seeds, fruits, plants.

Range: Endemic to New Zealand (managed islands/sanctuaries).

Size / weight: Large flightless parrot - ~50-65 cm, 1-4 kg.

2025 September