Kākāpō

Imagine a parrot that looks a little bit like an owl! That's the Kākāpō! It has big, round eyes that face forward, just like an owl. Its feathers are a pretty yellow-green color, all splotchy like moss on a tree. This amazing bird is about as long as a school ruler, and it's the only parrot in the whole world that can't fly! Instead, it's a super good climber and waddler on the ground.

Kākāpō are super rare and live only on the beautiful islands of New Zealand. Long, long ago, there weren't many animals that could hurt them there, so they didn't need to fly away from danger. They are also awake at night, like owls, and like to munch on yummy plants and fruits. They are pretty heavy birds, heavier than most other parrots, and they have big, strong feet for walking around.

Did you know Kākāpō can live for a super long time? Some might even live to be 100 years old, which is as old as some grown-ups! But sadly, there aren't many Kākāpō left. Mean animals like cats and rats that were brought to their home islands have made it very hard for them. Scientists are working very hard to protect them and help them have more babies.

Kākāpō are special because they are so unique! They are the only parrot that can't fly, they are the heaviest parrot, and they are awake at night. They are also very important to the people of New Zealand, called Māori. The Māori people used to use their feathers and even eat them. Now, everyone is trying to save them so they don't disappear forever!