Frisky Sirocco gets owl for diversion

HEAD CASE: Sirocco, the head-humping kakapo, gets help from American bird expert Barbara Heidenreich at Zealandia. His frisky antics made him a global internet sensation, but Sirocco's days of humping human heads could be numbered after a stint of behavioural training.

A stuffed owl, kauri cones and macadamia nuts are among the items in the bag of tricks being used by a specialist American animal trainer who has come to New Zealand specifically to work with the endangered kakapo.

Footage of Sirocco trying to mate with BBC zoologist Mark Carwardine's head has been viewed more than 3.5 million times on YouTube, but the Conservation Department is keen to curb his behaviour if he is to become an advocate for conservation.

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Visitors Flock to Sirocco Kakapo in Wellington

image by Mnolf.One of New Zealand's rarest birds, a Kakapo, has had visitors lining up to see him in Wellington this spring.

Sirocco can be seen at Zealandia until November 14th.

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Sirocco's parrot puke fetches $400

Spewed food (no, really) from one of New Zealand's most famous birds, Sirocco the kakapo. Photo / suppliedAn Auckland barrister has snapped up a unique piece of Kiwi history - regurgitated 'pine chews' from one of New Zealand's most famous birds, Sirocco the kakapo.

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Frisky pin-up parrot gets personal attention

PARROT FASHION: DoC ranger Alisha Sherriff responds to famous Sirocco's needs no matter the hour. Image by KEVIN STENT/Fairfax NZPlaying wingman  to the world's most famous parrot is more than a fulltime job for Alisha Sherriff – it's a labour of love.

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Kakapo died of salmonella infection

Hoki A female kakapo on Whenua Hou. Photo:Laura MollesA young female kakapo found dead on Codfish Island died of salmonella – but celebrity Sirocco and the other critically endangered birds should be safe.

Tests have revealed Purity, found dead two weeks ago, died of the infection, the Department of Conservation said.

Kakapo Recovery Programme manager Deirdre Vercoe Scott said it was the first time salmonella had been recorded in kakapo.

DOC was still testing samples from Purity to find out what strain of the bacteria infected her, Ms Vercoe Scott said.

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