Part 6/10:
Understanding why the Kakapo evolved to be so different from its Australian relatives can be traced back to the geographical isolation experienced by New Zealand for millions of years. As the islands separated from the supercontinent Gondwana, they became a crucible for evolutionary experimentation, resulting in a plethora of unique species.
Research shows that Kakapos share a lineage with theropod dinosaurs, solidifying their status as living relics from a past age when dinosaurs roamed the earth. Their peculiar adaptations, like flightlessness and distinctive breeding behaviors, emerged in this predator-free environment.