Research summary and options for conservation of kaka (Nestor meridionalis)

Conservation of Kaka in New Zealand

Kaka (Nestor meridionalis) populations have been declining in New Zealand since European occupation, largely because of predation and competition from introduced animals, forest destruction and fragmentation, and hunting pressure. They are now considered a threatened species. Kaka may be one of our most difficult species to manage because they continue to decline through the combined effects of...

Energetics of South Island Kaka (nestor Meridionalis Meridionalis) Feeding on the Larvae of Kanuka Longhorn Beetles (ochrocydus Huttoni)

Kaka (Nestor meridionalis meridionalis) studied in Big Bush State Forest spent 35% of their feeding time digging out Ochrocydus huttoni larvae from live mountain beech trunks (Nothofagus solandri var. cliffortioides). Larvae of O. huttoni had a high energy value compared to that of other insects. The assimilation efficiency for energy of two captive kaka was 91 j: 3% when fed a diet of O. hut/o...

Observed responses of captive stoats (Mustela erminea) to nest boxes and metal collars used to protect kaka (Nestor meridionalis) nest cavities

Artificial barriers, such as nest boxes and metal collars, are sometimes used, with variable success, to exclude predators and/or competitors from tree nests of vulnerable bird species. This paper describes the observed response of captive stoats (Mustela erminea) to a nest box design and an aluminium sheet collar used to protect kaka (Nestor meridionalis) nest cavities. The nest box, a prototy...

Social Play in Kaka (Nestor meridionalis) with Comparisons to Kea (Nestor notabilis)

Social play in kakapo (Strigops habroptilus) with comparisons to kea (Nestor notabilis) and kaka (Nestor meridionalis)