As recently as 1995, there were only 50 known Kakapo still surviving. Relentless hunting by humans, widespread forest clearing, and the introduction of dogs, cats, and rats nearly wiped these friendly, flightless birds off the planet.
Thanks to New Zealand’s Kakapo Recovery Programme’s intensive species management and successful breeding results, the Kakapo (Strigops habroptila) population has now increased to 124 birds.
The program requires intensive monitoring of wild adult birds on Codfish Island and Anchor Island - the only locations of the remaining Kakapo. Hand-raising of some of the chicks has also been necessary, and 17 Kakapo have been hand-raised and returned to the wild.
Kakapo Recovery Plan
The ultimate vision for the species is to have at least 150 adult females. Species management is guided by the Kakapo Recovery Plan to:
- Maximize recruitment in the kakapo population
- Minimize the loss of genetic diversity in the kakapo population
- Secure, restore or maintain sufficient habitat to accommodate the expected increase in the kakapo population
- Maintain public awareness and stakeholder support for kakapo conservation