Bird · GBIF taxon 2479593
Kea
Nestor notabilisAlso known as Mountain Parrot
Renowned as the world's only alpine parrot, kea are extraordinarily intelligent and inquisitive birds native to the rugged mountains of New Zealand. They live in complex social groups, using high-pitched screeches to communicate across alpine valleys and demonstrating exceptional problem-solving skills when investigating novel objects. Their curious nature often draws them to ski fields and hiking huts, where they inspect gear and interact with human visitors.
AlpineIntelligentEndemic
—observations
—countries
—peak records
EndangeredConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXEndangeredRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Insects
- Alpine Berries
- Nectar
Predators
- Stoat
- Feral Cat
- Brushtail Possum
ThreatsIntroduced predators, lead poisoning from roof flashing, vehicle collisions
HabitatsAlpine tussock, subalpine scrub, southern beech forests
Life span20–30 years in the wild
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyPsittacidae
- SpeciesNestor notabilis
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Capable of delivering a sharp bite with its powerful beak; refrain from feeding or touching.
- What to notice
- Distinctive olive-green plumage with flash of scarlet underwings, high long-curved beak, and clear loud call.
- Support conservation
- Keep gear secured, dispose of food waste properly, and never attempt to handle or tame wild individuals.
Responsible observation
- Do Not Feed: Feeding kea encourages habituation, vehicle strikes, and unhealthy dietary habits.
- Secure Belongings: Keep rubber seals, wiper blades, and tent zippers guarded, as kea enjoy picking at soft materials.
- Give Space: Enjoy watching their playful acrobatics and social interactions from a respectful distance.
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