Kakapos are the worlds only flightless parrot, managed intensively on predator-free islands with welfare considerations in every aspect of their recovery program.
Intensive management involves regular handling, weighing, and veterinary examination which is stressful for wild birds. Aspergillosis causes respiratory distress and is frequently fatal. Inbreeding depression from small population size causes physiological health problems. Females that successfully raise chicks invest enormous energy; failed breeding attempts represent significant welfare cost. Supplementary feeding, while essential, may cause obesity if not carefully managed.