Kakapo
Strigops habroptilus
Aves › Psittaciformes › Psittacidae › Strigops
Conservation status: critically_endangered
The kakapo is a large, flightless parrot from New Zealand with distinctive mossy-green plumage that makes it nearly invisible in the forest undergrowth. This nocturnal bird is one of the world's rarest parrots, known for its unusual habit of "booming"—producing deep resonant calls during mating season that can be heard nearly a kilometer away.
How To Identify
This large, robust bird has a unique appearance among parrots, covered in dull moss-green to brown plumage that aids camouflage on the forest floor. Its most distinguishing features are its massive size relative to typical parrots and the deep abdominal sacs (air sac) sometimes visible when resting.
Habitat
Native forest on predator-free islands off New Zealand, managed intensively by conservation staff.
Behaviour
Nocturnal and solitary; males boom from hilltop "leks" to attract females during breeding.
Native Range
The kākāpō is endemic to New Zealand.
Did You Know?
The Kakapo is the world's only flightless parrot and the heaviest parrot on Earth at up to 4 kg.
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