Intensive management of a critically endangered species: the kakapo

Abstract

Since a review of the management of the critically endangered kakapo ( Strigops habroptilus) in 1994, management of this species has become more intensive. This paper reports on new developments in the supplementary feeding of kakapo, continuous monitoring and protection of nests from predators, translocations of kakapo between islands, and artificial incubation of eggs and hand-raising of chicks. Supplementary feeding probably increases chick survival especially when natural food supplies fail. It may also increase breeding frequency, either by triggering breeding, or raising kakapo above a nutritional threshold. Protection of nests from predators has eliminated rat predation of eggs and chicks, and continuous monitoring and rebuilding of poor nest sites has improved kakapo nesting success. Recent translocations of kakapo between islands have aimed to prevent possibly infertile males from mating, facilitate supplementary feeding, improve the breeding prospects of some birds, test the suitability of a new island for kakapo, and facilitate the eradication of rats. Eggs have been artificially incubated and chicks hand-raised in an attempt to establish a captive population of hand-raised birds, to rescue sickly and unthrifty chicks, and to forestall likely nest failures.