The kakapo is a bird which lives on the islands of New- Zealand. Its name comes from Maori and it means ”night parrot”. It is also called ”owl parrot” because it looks like an owl.
Appearance, Habitat and Habits
The kakapo has a light green and brown colour. It is the only parrot that can not fly and it lives on the ground. It has small wings, with soft feathers and they are not used for flight. The feathers on its head make it look like an owl. It has a big beak and very strong legs. It can walk a lot, and even run. It can also climb trees to reach its food, and jumps back onto the ground, using its wings like a parachute. It is nocturnal and sleeps most of the day.
Kakapos used to live in different types of habitats on the islands, but now they are isolated on protected island because they are vulnerable to cats and rats, which were introduced by the Europeans settlers.
Kakapos are herbivorous, and they eat native plants, roots, seeds, fruits as well as pollen from flowers.
They can grow up to 60 cm in height and tend to be round-shaped. They can weigh 1 to 4 kilos when they reach their adult size.
Reproduction, Life span and current status
Kakapos start breeding when they are about 5 years old, even 10 years old for females. They mate every year, but only if there is enough food. The female can lay 1 to 4 eggs. The eggs hatch about 30 days later, and the female feeds the chicks on her own for at least 3 months. They can live for 65 years, and some specimens have reached the age of 95.
Today, this species is critically endangered with less than 150 individuals left on 3 protected islands.
| All you need to know about the kakapo : The-Kakapo-Quick-Presentation |
And it is even better to watch :
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