Rare parrot born at Loro Parque

Loro Parque - one of Tenerife's most popular attractions - has successfully bred one of the world's rarest parrots.

A spix's macaw was born at park last month, as part of its conservation programme.

The bird has not been seen in the wild since 2000 and was last in the UK at London Zoo in 1902.

"There are only 73 spix's macaws in the captive breeding programme, and therefore birth of this chick is a major global environmental victory. This new female will help to maintain the gene pool available for future breeding of this incredibly rare species, decreasing the risk of total extinction," said Dr David Waugh, director of the Loro Parque Foundation.

He noted that the attraction is committed to the survival of the species and has already successfully bred six spix's macaws.

The young chick is said to be in good condition and developing well alongside its older siblings.

One of Tenerife's most popular attractions, Loro Parque is home to everything from dolphins to penguins and orca whales.

Posted by Emily Sanders