Threats to kōkako

Four day old North Island kōkako
chick held in hand

In the early 1900s the North Island kōkako was common in forests throughout the North Island while the South Island kōkako was widespread in the South Island and Stewart Island. Primary causes of kōkako decline were forest clearance by settlers and the introduction of predators such as rats, stoats and possums.

Research has shown that female kōkako are particularly at risk of predation as they carry out all incubation and brooding throughout a prolonged (50-day) nesting period. Years of such predation have resulted in populations that are predominantly male and with consequent low productivity rates.

A "research by management" approach has demonstrated that the kōkako decline can be reversed and populations maintained on the mainland by innovative management of their habitat. Current research aims to increase management efficiency to ensure long-term kōkako survival.