Kakapo
NameKakapo
Common NameKākāpō
Scientific NameStrigops habroptilus
FamilyStrigopidae
Wingspan (cm)60
Length (cm)60
Weight (g)2500
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly moss-green, heavily mottled with brown and yellow, providing excellent camouflage in its forest habitat. The feathers are soft and downy, lacking the stiff flight feathers of flying birds.
Vocalization / CallKākāpō produce a variety of calls, most notably the deep, resonant 'boom' call made by males during the breeding season to attract mates, which can travel for kilometers. They also emit a high-pitched 'ching' call, screeches, and growls.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatstemperate rainforest, subalpine scrub, tussock grassland, dense native forest
Conservation Statuscritically-endangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to New Zealand. Historically widespread across New Zealand, its current range is restricted to several predator-free offshore islands, including Whenua Hou (Codfish Island), Anchor Island, and Hauturu (Little Barrier Island).
Identifying FeaturesLarge, flightless, nocturnal parrot, Moss-green mottled plumage, Owl-like facial disc with prominent vibrissae (whiskers), Strong legs and feet, Distinctive 'boom' call (males)
Description
The Kākāpō is a large, flightless, nocturnal parrot endemic to New Zealand. It possesses a distinctive moss-green plumage mottled with brown and yellow, an owl-like facial disc, and prominent whiskers.
