Kakariki population flies to new heights

Thirty green parrot chicks have successfully ventured into the wild. Image by Foundation for National Parks & Wildlife There is now an increased possibility that the Norfolk Island green parrot, one of the rarest birds in the world, will avoid extinction following a determined effort to save the species, according to wildlife conservationists.
Wellington has been for a long time one of my favourite cities in the world. There is something comforting about the boisterous beauty of the capital. Until recently, the Wellingtonian coffee culture was on top of my list of reasons to visit, now the number one reason (excuse?) for an escape is a bird: the kakariki.
The Red-crowned Parakeets, or Kakariki, are a delightful member of New Zealand's avifauna. This guy was feeding on the flowers of a Cabbage Tree on Tiriitiri Matangi Island near Auckland. Image by DuncanThis year's hot summer has been especially tough on the rare kakariki, New Zealand’s native parrot.