The kea (/ ˈkiːə / KEE-ə; Māori: [kɛ.a]; Nestor notabilis) is a species of large parrot in the family Strigopidae [3] that is endemic to the forested and alpine regions of the South Island of New Zealand. [4] .

Kea are the only mountain parrot species in the world and now number fewer than 5,000 individuals in the wild (Anderson, 1986).

Kea are omnivores and feed on more than 40 plant species, nuts, seeds, pollen, fruits, beetle larvae, insects, snails, other birds (including shearwater chicks), and mammals (including sheep and rabbits). They also scavenge and take advantage of human garbage and "gifts" of food.

Kea Profile. Crowned Bird of the Year in 2017, the kea is one of the most intelligent—and fascinating—birds in the world. They are a species of large parrot, native to New Zealand.

Kea are large parrots found only on the South Island of New Zealand. They live primarily in alpine regions – areas high in the mountains, above where trees grow. In fact, they are the only species of parrots that can survive in alpine environments. Sadly, humans have hunted this species extensively, endangering them. Read on to learn about the Kea.

Nov 2, 2022 · The kea (Nestor notabilis) is a large parrot endemic to New Zealand’s South Island, where they inhabit steep mountains. Nicknamed the “naughty alpine parrot,” this species is playful, curious, and highly intelligent.

Inquisitive, intelligent, bold—kea find humans and their cast-offs every bit as intriguing as we find them. But our relationship with these cocky mountain parrots has not always been so cordial. For over a century, farmers slaughtered kea in their thousands in retribution for their attacks on sheep.

Kea live in wooded valleys and southern beech (Nothofagus) forests that line sub-alpine scrublands at 600 to 2000 m. In summer, kea inhabit high elevation scrub and alpine tundra areas. In autumn, they move to higher elevations to forage for berries. In winter, kea move below the timberline. (del Hoyo, et al., 1996) Habitat Regions; temperate ...

Nov 10, 2024 · The kea, New Zealand’s alpine parrot, stands out for its remarkable intelligence, vibrant plumage, and adaptability to rugged mountain environments. The kea symbolizes the country’s natural heritage with its complex behavior, diverse diet, and unique evolutionary history.

Kea are a unique and endangered parrot (psittacine) species endemic to the Southern Alps of New Zealand. Kea are highly adaptive and are considered by scientists to be one of the most intelligent bird species in the world.