A kākāpō chick hatched on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2026, bringing the total known population of these critically endangered birds to 237. The chick was fostered by an experienced mother, Yasmine, from an egg laid by Tīwhiri, and will not be officially counted in the population until it fledges.
A Long Road to Recovery
The hatching represents “an exciting moment” in the ongoing recovery of the species, according to Deidre Vercoe, DOC Operations Manager for kākāpō/takahē. Kākāpō breed infrequently, only every two to four years, and the success of each breeding season is far from guaranteed.
This breeding season is the 13th undertaken by the Department of Conservation’s Kākāpō Recovery Programme since 1995. Of the 187 eggs laid so far this season, only 74 are fertile, and not all of those will hatch or survive to fledging.
Intensive Management and Fostering
Kākāpō are “one of the most intensively managed species in the world,” Vercoe stated. To maximize breeding success, DOC utilizes fostering techniques. Biological mother Tīwhiri laid four fertile eggs this season, while Yasmine had none, making her an ideal foster parent as kākāpō mothers typically have the best outcomes raising a maximum of two chicks.
The Kākāpō Recovery Programme works in collaboration with Ngāi Tahu, and the hatching is considered a significant milestone for the iwi. Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu representative Tāne Davis noted the importance of Pukenui Anchor Island as a safe haven for these “taonga” species.
Looking Ahead
Currently, there are 236 adult kākāpō, each equipped with a radio transmitter to track their movements. The three breeding populations are located on Whenua Hou/Codfish Island, Pukenui/Anchor Island, and Te Kāhaku/Chalky Island. Another egg laid by Rakiura is due to hatch within a week, and a live stream of her nest is available through Kākāpō Cam. If successful, this could provide a unique opportunity to witness a kākāpō chick hatching live.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many kākāpō are there currently?
As of February 16, 2026, there are 237 known kākāpō, though the newest chick won’t be officially added to the population until it fledges.
How often do kākāpō breed?
Kākāpō only breed every two to four years, with breeding triggered by the mass fruiting of the rimu tree.
What is being done to assist the kākāpō population recover?
The Department of Conservation’s Kākāpō Recovery Programme, in collaboration with Ngāi Tahu, undertakes intensive management of the species, including fostering chicks and tracking adult birds with radio transmitters.
What role does technology play in the conservation of this species, and how might that evolve in the future?
Related reading