Kea

Kea is New Zealand’s endemic mountain parrot, seen around South Island alpine passes, ski fields and huts. Its olive-green body conceals scarlet underwings that flare in flight. Kea is a large olive-green parrot with scarlet underwings and a long, slender grey-black bill; juveniles have yellow eyelids and cere that turn grey with age. Kākā is smaller, browner and seldom seen above the treeline.

Kea range along the South Island’s axial ranges from the Nelson Lakes region through the Southern Alps to Fiordland. They use forest, subalpine scrub, scree and alpine grassland, but are absent from the North Island and Rakiura/Stewart Island. Kea investigate natural foods and human objects with their bill and feet, and forage across forest and alpine zones. Their curiosity brings them to cars, buildings and equipment at mountain sites.

Kea is Threatened — Nationally Endangered (NZ Threat Classification). Introduced predators attack nests, while lead poisoning, vehicle strikes and deliberate harm around human settlements also kill birds. Arthur’s Pass, Aoraki/Mount Cook, Fiordland and alpine road passes are well-known places to encounter kea. Birds often visit ski fields, car parks and mountain huts, where food should never be offered.