Kea

The mischievous parrot of the Southern Hemisphere, Kea

Kea is the world's only alpine parrot that inhabits the highlands of New Zealand's South Island. Known for its high intelligence and curiosity, it is famous for rummaging through travelers' backpacks and chewing on car rubber parts.

Characteristics

• Scientific Name: Nestor notabilis

• Habitat: Southern Alps region of New Zealand's South Island

• Size: About 46cm, weight 800–1,000g

• Distinctive Color: Olive green feathers with bright orange hidden under the wings

• Intelligence: Exhibits high cognitive abilities, including problem-solving and tool use

Habitat and Behavior

• Primarily inhabits mountainous areas and national parks, frequently spotted in Arthur’s Pass and Fiordland.

• Strongly foraging for food, it may open bags or tear at car rubber.

• Highly social, it often moves in groups and approaches people in a friendly manner.

Conservation Status

• IUCN Conservation Status: Endangered

• Population decline due to habitat destruction, vehicle collisions, and ingestion of harmful human-provided food.

• Conservation efforts are underway by the New Zealand government and environmental protection organizations.

Precautions

• Do not feed wild keas – human food can harm their health.

• Be cautious around vehicles – they may tear at car rubber or wipers, causing damage.

• Observe in nature – keas are a precious natural heritage of New Zealand that should be protected.

Tips

When visiting the alpine regions or national parks of New Zealand's South Island, you are likely to encounter keas. It is important to quietly observe their curious behavior and not interfere, allowing them to live freely in nature.