Orange-fronted Parakeet

Kākāriki karaka is a rare mainland parakeet, a small green bird with an orange forehead. The orange frontal band separates it from yellow-crowned kākāriki, which has a red frontal band above a yellow crown.

Wild mainland birds are centred in Canterbury beech valleys, with managed populations on predator-free islands including Blumine and Chalky. It feeds on beech seed, flowers, fruit and invertebrates and nests in tree holes, breeding strongly in mast years.

Orange-fronted parakeet is Threatened — Nationally Critical (NZ Threat Classification). Rats, stoats, habitat loss and dependence on fluctuating beech seed threaten the species. Mainland valleys are intensively managed and sightings are difficult; predator-free translocation islands provide controlled opportunities.