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Kagu

The Kagu, a flightless bird of New Caledonia, captivates with its elegant grey feathers and vibrant red legs. Its nasal calls echo through dense forests, where it expertly hunts invertebrates, maintaining ecosystem balance. With a crest reminiscent of a crown, it’s a regal guardian of its island home.

20-30 years
Lifespan
708.0 - 1105.0 g
Weight
Length: 55 cm; Height: 56 cm
Size
Grey, Blue
Color
2-3 years
Age of Sexual Maturity
Low
Aggression
Endangered
Conservation Status
Decreasing
Population Trend
Characteristics
The Kagu (Rhynochetos jubatus) is a flightless bird native to the dense mountain forests of New Caledonia. It features striking grey plumage, bright red legs, and a distinctive crest. Known for its unique, nasal calls and a diet primarily consisting of invertebrates, the Kagu plays a vital role in controlling insect populations.
Distribution Range of the Kagu
Rhynochetos jubatus, commonly known as the Kagu, is native to the island of New Caledonia, located in the southwest Pacific Ocean. New Caledonia is a French territory comprising a main island, Grande Terre, and several smaller islands.
Kagu's Habitat
Environmental Conditions
The Kagu inhabits dense, humid forests in the mountainous regions of New Caledonia. These areas are characterized by subtropical and tropical climates with high humidity and significant rainfall. The forest floor, rich in leaf litter and undergrowth, provides an ideal environment for the Kagu.
Ecological Niche
The Kagu is a ground-dwelling bird that primarily occupies the forest floor, where it forages for invertebrates such as insects and worms. It has adapted to a flightless lifestyle, utilizing its strong legs for walking and its wings for balance and short bursts of escape if necessary. The Kagu's ecological role includes controlling insect populations and contributing to the forest ecosystem dynamics.