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Andrew Digby Reports Kākāpō Population Hits 325

The critically endangered kākāpō population has reached 325 individuals following a record breeding season, proving that sustained conservation efforts can rescue species from the brink.

Simon Willison1 day agoCulture
Illustration generated for this story

Scientist Andrew Digby has announced that the global population of the critically endangered kākāpō has risen to 325 individuals. This milestone comes after chicks from a record-breaking breeding season officially matured into juveniles and were added to the total population count.

The update represents a major victory for long-term conservation efforts. In 1995, the flightless parrot species was on the absolute verge of extinction, with only 51 individual birds remaining on Earth. The growth to 325 birds highlights the efficacy of sustained, intensive management of endangered wildlife.

According to Digby, the recovery of such critically endangered species remains entirely possible when backed by dedicated, long-term initiatives. The positive update was highlighted by technologist Simon Willison, who described the population milestone as the best news of the year.

This is our own summary of reporting by Simon Willison

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