What is so special about kakapos?

As parrots go, Kakapos are quite noteworthy. These birds hold several records, and truly are one of a kind. Learn what makes these birds so unique below. Heavyweight Champion – This species holds the crown as the heaviest species of parrot in the world.

How much does a kakapo parrot weigh?

Kakapos are sturdy birds. Unlike other land birds, the kakapo can store large amounts of energy as body fat. It's the world's heaviest parrot: at about 24 inches tall, it weighs between 4 and 9 lbs. 10.

What is the scientific name of the kakapo?

The scientific name of the kakapo is Strigops habroptilus. The genus Strigops (of which the kakapo appears to be the only living member) is derived from two separate Greek words: Strix, meaning owl, and ops, meaning appearance or face.

How old do kakapo have to be to breed?

How old do kakapo have to be to breed?
Kakapo breed later on in life than most birds, with male kakapo reaching sexual maturity at around the age of 5 and female kakapo can be nearly 10 years old before they can breed. Kakapo tend to live very long lives with the average kakapo individual getting to around 60 years old.

What is kākāpō recovery?

What is kākāpō recovery?
Sirocco is New Zealand's official Spokesbird for conservation. Kākāpō Recovery leads kākāpō conservation efforts today. They face major challenges due to kākāpō infertility and inbreeding. Nevertheless, they've had some triumphant successes using innovative techniques to grow the population.

Why is it illegal to own a kakapo as a pet?

This is why it is highly illegal to own one as a pet. Though no zoos house these birds, the Kakapo Recovery Program does hand rear chicks and incubates eggs to increase their survival rate. The researchers carefully managed the temperatures during incubation and the rearing of the chicks.