The kākāpō, also sometimes known as the owl parrot, is a fascinating bird native to New Zealand. It is known for its striking green feathers and very charming and upbeat personality. In the eyes of many bird enthusiasts, this description alone makes kākāpōs seem like the ideal pet. Yet, with so few left in the wild, the prospect of pet ownership is next to impossible.
Let’s learn more about these birds and what makes them unique.
Kākāpōs Are Critically Endangered Parrots
The kākāpō stands out for its stunning green feathers and yellow-green underparts. They generally weigh four to eight pounds, sporting a robust build and sturdy legs. These flightless birds spend most of their time climbing trees and moving around forest floors.
They are very inquisitive and have a playful nature. In the wild, they’re observed using their intelligence to navigate problem-solving situations and social interactions. They have a distinctive booming call that people can hear from miles away, especially during mating season.
Unfortunately, the kākāpō population has plummeted because of invasive predators, habitat destruction, and other environmental pressures. Many conservation organizations focus on protecting and breeding the remaining kākāpōs in peaceful, predator-free sanctuaries. As of now, they’re very closely monitored and have strict regulations for their care and habitat. Their conservation status makes it nearly impossible for people to own them as pets.
Why Can’t You Have a Kākāpō?
The biggest reason you can’t keep a kākāpō is because they’re critically endangered, like axolotls and vaquitas. New Zealand’s government and other conservation organizations are wholeheartedly dedicated to preserving this species. So, keeping a kākāpō as a pet can undermine these efforts and even potentially put the animal’s survival at risk.
These birds are also protected by law in New Zealand. This means that it’s illegal to catch them or own them without very special permission from conservation authorities. These protections are super important for keeping a delicate balance of their ecosystem and ensuring these birds’ survival.
What’s more, caring for a kākāpō is not easy, requiring knowledge and resources that even experienced bird owners don’t have. This alone makes them unsuitable pets outside of reputable wildlife sanctuaries and zoos.
Pet Birds Similar to the Kākāpō
While you might not be able to keep a kākāpō as a pet, there are plenty of other parrots with similar features. They include:
African Grey Parrots
Known for their vocal abilities and innate intelligence, the African grey parrot is considered one of the smartest birds. They can mimic human speech and understand complex commands.
Like the kākāpō, they require a lot of mental stimulation and social interaction to be happy. African grey parrots thrive in spaces where they can engage with their owners and enjoy consistent enrichment. Because of their multifaceted needs and demand for stimulation, these parrots do not make good pets for first-time bird owners.
Amazon Parrots
Amazon parrots are fun, social birds, known for their noise and playful behavior. They come in various sizes, so you can choose one based on your living situation. They absolutely love social interaction and can even be trained to speak and perform tricks, making them entertaining companions.
They need a big cage with lots of space, a balanced diet, and regular interaction with their owners. With this, they can live up to 40 years or more, so as an owner, you need to be prepared for a long-term relationship.
Quaker Parrots
Quaker parrots are small yet social birds. They are often known for their bright green feathers and fun personalities. Much like kakapos, they are unique social structures, thrive in groups, and enjoy companionship.
These parrots need a balanced diet, mental stimulation, and social interaction to be truly happy. They can live for 15 to 30 years, making them medium-term companions for owners. This is a shorter commitment than other birds, but still a big one nevertheless.
Budgies
Budgies are small parrots that are becoming incredibly popular around the world. These vibrant birds are very sociable and thrive on social interaction, just like the other birds on this list. They are known for their vibrant range of colors and super sociable nature. They are very intelligent little critters and can learn to talk, making them a fun pet for the whole family. They thrive on social interaction.
With their needs met, which includes a balanced diet and mental stimulation, they can happily live for seven to 10 years. It is recommended to have a few budgies in the same cage so that they can interact with one another. Living with other birds contributes greatly to their overall well-being.
Verdict: Kākāpō Do Not Make Suitable Pets
Well, there you have it, bird lovers! Above you can find everything that you need to know about kākāpōs and whether you can keep them as pets! Unfortunately, these little guys won’t be able to occupy a place in your home, but that doesn’t mean they can’t occupy a place in your heart for the time being! In fact, you can get involved with the conservation efforts by spreading the word or even donating today! You can also check out other birds with similar qualities that don’t require specialized care.
