Celeb parrot to promote conservation
Sirocco rose to fame on Last Chance to See
Celebrity parrot Sirocco has been officially appointed the world's first "spokesbird for conservation".
Arguably the most famous parrot in the world, having starred in the BBC's Last Chance to See last year, the notorious kakapo has been chosen for the role by New Zealand's prime minister John Key.
The 13-year-old bird, who appeared alongside Stephen Fry in Last Chance to See, during which he made an unusual mating attempt with presenter Mark Carwadine, is one of just 124 flightless parrots left in the world and his status will be used to highlight the endemic wildlife experiences in New Zealand and conservation efforts taking place in the nation.
"He's very media-savvy, he's got a worldwide fan base - they hang on every squawk that comes out of his beak. He'll be a great official spokesbird and a great ambassador for New Zealand," Mr Key said.
The nation's conservation minister Kate Wilkinson added that New Zealand is home to a number of rare species including the world's smallest marine dolphin and the last surviving member of the dinosaur family.
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"We have so much unique native wildlife in every nook and cranny across the country. This is our biodiversity to protect and Sirocco can help spread that message," she stated.
Sirocco's TV antics were shown last year, and have since attracted more than 600,000 views on YouTube and been the subject of thousands of Twitter messages.
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Comments
hehe that parrot sure is randy, just watch the youtube video! hilarious
Yes a marvellous boost for awareness of biodiversity in New Zealand.
This is a wonderful way to generare interest and publicity. Pity Mark Carwadine did not seem to be enjoying it as much as the parrot.....