Information Report

Kea also knew as a (“Nestor notabilis”) is a unique endemic species of large parrot in the family, which you can only find in the Southern Alps of New Zealand.

Kea well. Raucous cries of "kea" often give away the presence of these highly social and inquisitive birds. However, their endearing and mischievous behaviour can cause conflict with people. Kea will often congregate around novel objects, and their strong beaks have enormous manipulative power. Kea grows up to 50 cm long and although mostly vegetarian, also enjoy grubs and insects. The kea is related to the forest kaka (Nestor meridionalis). It is thought to have developed its own special characteristics during the last great ice age, by using its unusual powers of curiosity in its search for food in a harsh landscape. Nests are usually found among boulders in high altitude forest where the birds lay between two and four eggs during the breeding season from July and January.

Keas have green feathers to camouflage them in trees. They also have 4 toes on each foot which allows them to manipulate objects. Keas’ beaks are long and curved which enable them to eat different types of food. Kea live on a forested and rocky mountain. In summer, they live on top of the mountain and in winter, they go down the mountain. They can be found in the South Island of New Zealand. Keas live for about 5 to 25 years in the wild and about 50 years in captivity. Kea breed from early July to January. The Kea’s nest is mainly below the tree line. Baby keas, stay in the nest for about 12 weeks with their mother, while their father hunts for food. The keas population size is now difficult because of the extensive range, low kea density, and rugged terrain. The conservation status of keas was declared naturally endangered in 2013.