Strigopinae

The Strigopinae subfamily is part of the parrot family, Psittacidae. This subfamily includes the kakapo (Strigops habroptilus), a large, flightless, nocturnal parrot native to New Zealand. The kakapo is known for its owl-like face, penguin-like posture, and duck-like waddle.12

These birds are the heaviest of all parrots, weighing up to 13 pounds and measuring 25 inches in length. They have moss-green and brown plumage, a rounded tail, and a stout bill. Kakapos are gentle and tame, feeding on plants and digging for rhizomes. Males gather in leks to attract females with a resonant booming call. Females nest in the ground and raise their young alone.2

The kakapo was once feared extinct due to introduced predators like rats and weasels. Conservation efforts have focused on protecting the remaining population, which is now housed in predator-free sanctuaries.2