Hamilton Zoo at Te Kaaroro Nature Precinct is excited to highlight its crucial role in a breed for release program aimed at bolstering wild populations of native species.
Discover how we're helping to bolster wild populations of the North Island Kākā, a native parrot facing habitat loss and predation. Learn about our state-of-the-art Free Flight Aviary, specialised care during breeding season, and the meticulous process of preparing Kākā for life in the wild. Watch our video or read below to see our efforts in action and find out how you can support our mission.
Under the guidance of Cheridan Mathers, Curator of Natives and Waiwhakareke, this initiative represents a significant commitment to wildlife conservation and collaboration with key partners like the Department of Conservation.
We are particularly focused on the North Island Kākā, a native parrot that has faced increasing challenges due to habitat loss and predation.
Kākā are housed in our Free Flight Aviary, the largest of its kind in New Zealand, which provides them the freedom to engage in natural behaviours. This aviary allows them to thrive in an environment that mimics their natural habitat.
In the aviary, Kākā can choose their nesting sites. During the breeding season, which runs from September to February, we provide them a specialized diet rich in protein and fats to support the health of both the parents and the chicks.
Hamilton Zoo not only provides nest boxes for the Kākā but also monitors their progress closely. Our team ensures the nests remain healthy and checks on the chicks' growth to ensure they are developing appropriately. Once the chicks leave the nest, they won’t return, making it essential to prepare them well for independence.
Breeding Kākā in captivity is crucial because nestlings and juveniles are particularly vulnerable to predation and pest impacts. By breeding these birds safely, we can significantly enhance their numbers before they are released into the wild.
Before any Kākā are released, they undergo comprehensive health checks by the Hamilton Zoo's veterinary team to ensure they are fit for life in the wild. After passing these checks, the birds enter a quarantine period before being transferred to designated sanctuaries, where they can contribute to the growing population of their species.
At Hamilton Zoo, we invite the community to join us in our conservation efforts. By visiting our zoo, you can witness firsthand the incredible work we’re doing to safeguard New Zealand’s unique wildlife.