Sirocco the Kakapo

Parrot plays a new role in New Zealand

New Zealand’s celebrity parrot, Sirocco the Kakapo becomes a spokesbird

New Zealand’s celebrity parrot, Sirocco the Kakapo, has been officially appointed as the world’s first ‘spokesbird for conservation’ during the launch of New Zealand’s involvement in the International Year of Biodiversity.

Sirocco shot to fame last year after his inappropriate actions during the BBC’s Last Chance to See series, with Stephen Fry and Mark Carwardine. New Zealand Prime Minister John Key formally named Sirocco as official spokesbird during the launch of New Zealand’s involvement in the International Year of Biodiversity, in recognition of this Kakapo’s celebrity status.

Sirocco, now 13-years-old, is one of just 124 Kakapo left in the world. The flightless species is endemic to New Zealand. Sirocco’s task will be to highlight New Zealand’s endemic wildlife experiences and conservation work.

Commenting on why Sirocco’s status made him an obvious choice for the role, Prime Minister Key said: "He's very media-savvy, he's got a world-wide fan base - they hang on every squawk that comes out of his beak. He'll be a great official spokesbird and a great ambassador for New Zealand.

"Sirocco can speak very loudly on this topic and by the end of this campaign people will be a lot more aware of what's going on," Mr Key said.

While Sirocco enjoys celebrity status, New Zealand’s 100th Kakapo has officially been named ‘Te Atapo’ which means "the dawn after the night". New Zealand conservationist Don Merton, was given the honour of naming the Kakapo, and said:
"The 100th Kakapo symbolises the dawning of new hope - a brighter future after an unprecedented dark episode in Kakapo history."

There were only 51 known Kakapo in 1995 but today, thanks to extensive conservation efforts by a dedicated team, the number has risen to 124. The 100th Kakapo hatched during an outstanding 2009 breeding season that produced 33 chicks.

See Sirocco’s website and video at: www.spokesbird.com