Antipodes island parakeet  (Cyanoramphus unicolor)

In 1978, the total population of these birds was estimated at 2,000 to 3,000 birds and, although population trends are unknown, numbers are thought likely to be stable (2). Whilst there appears to be no immediate danger to this relatively common bird, its restricted range means that it will always be vulnerable to catastrophic loss, most likely by the accidental introduction of carnivores to the small predator-free islands, which could decimate current populations (4) (2). The fear is that fishing boats or other passing vessels could introduce predators such as rats (Rattus spp.), cats and mustelids (Mustela spp.), or mice that may compete for food (2). Although such introductions were once thought unlikely due to the islands' isolated location, increased fishing pressure in waters around the Antipodes has greatly increased the chance of such a potentially devastating possibility (5) (2).

The Antipodes island parakeet is totally protected under the Wildlife Act 1953 (6). The islands are uninhabited and protected, being nature reserves with landing strictly by permit only (2). New Zealand's wildlife service removed approximately 11 of these birds from the islands in the 1970s and 1980s to launch a captive breeding programme that would safeguard the species from total extinction (6). There are currently more than 100 Antipodes Island parakeets in captivity, and the species appears to breed well (4). However, the release of six birds on Stephens Island in 1985 was unsuccessful (6). In 1907, 12 birds were released on Kapati Island and survived for around 20 years, but today this species no longer exists there (2). Thus, further reintroductions into the wild are a possibility for the future, if the recipe for establishing a successful population can be determined. Nevertheless, current populations of the Antipodes island parakeet appear stable, and will hopefully remain that way provided their remote island haven remains protected from human interference.