This is a Kakapo (Strigops habroptilus), a rare breed of flightless parrot native to New Zealand.

Sometimes referred to as an Owl Parrot due to its moon-like face, the bird is nocturnal and entirely vegetarian, feeding mainly on flowers, roots and leaves.

While our specimen is slightly faded in colour, the Kakapo is usually a bright mossy green with dappled yellow and black.

This camouflage allows the Kakapo some protection against birds who hunt above the forest using sight, but is of little use against mammals who hunt using smell. Before the arrival of humans the Kakapo was common throughout New Zealand’s forests, but became vulnerable to attack from introduced species such as rats and cats. The bird is now heavily monitored and managed on predator-free islands.

This specimen is believed to have travelled to the museum in the latter half of the 19th century, although its precise history is uncertain. Worcester had become a lively centre for natural history research and learning by this period, with the founding of the Worcestershire Natural History Society and other dedicated groups creating and promoting their own collections.

Having visited the Worcester Museum and seen the collection of bird specimens on display, it is believed that famous ornithologist John Gould was inspired to carry out his own Australian expedition. He sent back many specimens to the museum, some of which can now be seen alongside the Kakapo in Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum’s exhibition ‘Enquiring Minds’, which celebrates Worcester’s prominent role in exploration and discovery 150 years ago and features a rare copy of Gould’s Birds of Australia.

The exhibition runs until November 11 and is open Monday to Saturday, 10.30am-4.30pm. Entry is free and more information can be found at museumsworcestershire.org.uk