Kakapo Kakapo

1. Large, flightless parrot with moss-green feathers mottled with yellow and black

2. Distinctive owl-like facial disc and forward-facing eyes

3. Nocturnal behaviour, often seen on the ground or climbing trees at night

Kākāpō have a unique lek breeding system where males compete to attract females. They breed only every 2-4 years when certain native trees produce abundant fruit. These parrots can live up to 100 years, making them one of the longest-living birds in the world.

Kākāpō are now only found on predator-free islands in New Zealand. Look for them on the forest floor or in trees after dusk. They prefer dense, native forests with plenty of vegetation cover. Listen for their distinctive "boom" calls during breeding season. A good tip is to search for their "track and bowl" systems \- cleared areas where males perform their courtship displays.

Kākāpō once roamed throughout New Zealand and were important to Māori, who used their feathers in cloaks. They nearly went extinct due to hunting and introduced predators, but intensive conservation efforts are helping their recovery.