Kakapo
Kakapo Facts
| Size | 20-24 in (50-60 cm) |
| Speed | Unknown |
| Weight | 4.4-8.8 lb (2-4 kg) |
| Lifespan | 50-65 years |
| Food | Plants, insects, pollen, seeds, fruit, invertebrates |
| Predators | Cats, stoats |
| Habitat | Anchor/Codfish Island |
| Order | Parrots |
| Family | New Zealand parrots |
| Scientific name | Strigops habroptilus |
| Characteristics | A parrot that can’t fly |
Main Characteristics
The kakapo is the only parrot in the world that can’t fly. It has a face veil like an owl, and smells like flowers, honey and beeswax. Kakapos are active at night.
Life Expectancy
How Long Do Kakapos Live?
A kakapo can live to up to 90 years!
Enemies and Threats
The Kakapo Was a Critically Endangered Species
The kakapo was at risk of dying out. There were only a few more than 65 birds left. But in 1989, animal conservationists started a crazy campaign. The “Kakapo Recovery” project raised money and then gave each remaining kakapo a name and a tracker before releasing them on four different islands. There, the conservationists looked after the kakapos. They even got rid of all the rats on Codfish Island so that they didn’t kill the kakapo chicks.
Reproduction
Kakapo Parenting
The female doesn’t get broody every year, only when the rimu tree has fruited. They lay 3-4 eggs, and the chicks hatch after 30 days. After 10 weeks, they don’t need their parents anymore and go their separate ways.
This fact sheet was submitted by animalfunfacts.net fan L.R. Thanks!
