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First Kakapo Chick Hatches, Boosting Population to 237

2/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On February 14, 2026, the first kakapo chick of the breeding season hatched on Pukenui Anchor Island, increasing the population to 237.
The chick was fostered by Yasmine from an egg laid by Tiwhiri.
Deidre Vercoe, DOC Operations Manager, said the hatch marks progress for the critically endangered kakapo, which breeds every 2–4 years, as the Kakapo Recovery Programme, supported by Meridian Energy, provides a live camera stream.

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Story summary

On February 14, 2026, the first kakapo chick of the breeding season hatched on Pukenui Anchor Island, increasing the population to 237.
The chick was fostered by Yasmine from an egg laid by Tiwhiri.
Deidre Vercoe, DOC Operations Manager, said the hatch marks progress for the critically endangered kakapo, which breeds every 2–4 years, as the Kakapo Recovery Programme, supported by Meridian Energy, provides a live camera stream.