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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Charlotte Graham-McLay

World’s only flightless parrot could be saved from extinction after unusual mating boom

The kakapo, the world’s only flightless parrot, was once deemed a biological paradox – too heavy, too slow, and too appealing to predators to survive. Yet, this unique New Zealand native is now defying its grim prognosis, teetering towards survival after an unlikely conservation effort.

Over three decades, dedicated work has seen the nocturnal and reclusive bird’s population soar from a mere 50 to over 200, marking a significant victory for biodiversity. This year offers particular promise, with an abundance of the strange parrot’s favourite berries sparking an unusual enthusiasm for mating.

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