Kagu

New Caledonia · rare bird · unique family

One of a kind. The kagu is the only living member of its bird family, Rhynochetidae. This means it has no living relatives in the whole world, making it incredibly special and unique.

Mountain forest home. Kagus live only in the dense mountain forests of New Caledonia, a French territory in the South Pacific. They cannot be found anywhere else in the wild.

Fancy blue-grey feathers. The kagu has a striking appearance with bluish-grey feathers and a crest on its head that makes it look fancy. Its long legs help it walk through the forest floor.

Ancient family history. Scientists have found fossils of a second kagu species that lived long ago, showing that this bird family was once more diverse. Today, only this one species remains.