Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: The Conservation
Context: Genetic mapping of the nearly entire kākāpō population, a critically endangered flightless parrot found only in New Zealand, has revealed valuable insights into specific traits crucial for conservation efforts.
About Kākāpō:
The kākāpō, also known as the owl parrot, is a large, flightless parrot that is native to New Zealand. Kākāpō are known for their unique appearance, which includes a facial disc, owl-like eyes, and a large, gray beak.
IUCN Status: critically endangered.
They only breed every few years, triggered by the availability of certain forest foods. Rimu fruit, which is part of the kākāpō diet, is thought to trigger breeding.
