Kagu
McCormick Bird House
Did You Know?
- Kagus have specialized feathers called powder downs, which make powder that helps keep the bird clean, waterproof, and insulated.
- To surprise potential predators, they flap their large wings. They also use their long legs to outrun danger.
- Free-roaming domestic dogs are an ongoing problem for these birds, along with other predators such as cats and rats. In 2017, two dogs killed 75% of the radio-tagged individuals in one park with the largest subpopulation (more than 1,000 individuals) over a two-month period. Conservation programs have been put in place to protect them.
Don’t See the Animals?
Why aren’t animals visible at all times? To promote positive animal welfare, we provide animals with choices. They can choose to spend time in areas that are out of public view.
Take an Animal Home with You
Overview
Scientific Name: Rhynochetos jubatus
Class: Birds
Diet: Invertebrates like worms and snails, small vertebrates like lizards
Range: New Caledonia
Endangered Status: Endangered
More Information
Kagus are large, flightless birds that can reach 2 feet in height. Males and females have bluish-gray plumage, orange beaks and eggs, and red eyes. They also have black barring on their wings. They prefer forested habitats and are territorial, protecting areas of up to 70 acres.
These birds form monogamous mating pairs that raise just one chick per year. After courtship, females build nests that look like a pile of leaves. They incubate eggs for up to 40 days.
