Success in breeding kākāriki karaka
One of New Zealand's rarest and most endangered birds has been successfully bred at the Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre, near Masterton.
Orange-fronted parakeets (kākāriki karaka) were declared extinct twice in 1919 and 1965. Today their wild population number is just 100-300 individuals.
Successful hand-rearing of orange-fronted parakeets is considered extremely unlikely but Pūkaha had very little choice. The five chicks hatched in early August from one of the centre’s two breeding pairs, a male called Karaka and a female called Pōra. Not wanting to disturb the nest, it wasn’t until two weeks of age that rangers noticed that the feathers on the chicks were not developing. A closer inspection revealed that the chicks were bald and that their feathers had been plucked by their parents. Immediate intervention was required because the chicks were at imminent danger of dying from the cold. The only option for the parakeets’ survival was an attempt at hand-rearing.
The young chicks were immediately placed in brooders with heat lamps and fed a diet of parrot rearing formula. It took about three weeks for the chicks to get their feathers. Some six weeks later, all five chicks are fully grown, flying, and eating by themselves.
Poll: How do you feel about dogs being allowed indoors in cafes?
For most of us, seeing a friendly doggo while out and about instantly brings a smile to our faces. But how do you feel about cafes welcoming pups inside?
Cast a vote and share your thoughts below.
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27.9% I love it!
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31.8% Only in designated areas
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40.2% No, it should be outdoors only.
Bags
Kia Ora. Does anyone have any spare reusable or paper bags we are in need of some at Vinnies Kilbirnie. Thanks
Mental Health Awareness Week - support a community organisation
Today, the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand encourages you to tautoko a community organisation. It’s no secret that the pandemic, rising costs and extreme weather events have made things tough for our organisations over the past few years. We have hundreds of volunteer roles on our website which will help you do to do this! Check out this small selection and head to our website to find more and to register your interest:
www.volunteerwellington.nz...
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