Kea, New Zealand's mountain parrot
If you are a frequent visitor to or live in an alpine environment you will know the kea well. Raucous cries of "keeaa" often give away the presence of these highly social and inquisitive birds. However, their endearing and mischievous behaviour can cause conflict with people.
Kea (Nestor notabilis) are an endemic parrot of the South Island's high country. Although kea are seen in reasonable numbers throughout the South Island, the size of the wild population is unknown - but is estimated at between 1,000 and 5,000 birds.
Did you know that the kea is rated as one of the most intelligent birds in the world? Learn all about kea in this section.
Loss of habitat and negative interactions with humans are two of the greatest threats to kea. Find out why and what you can do to protect these curious and intelligent birds.
Monitoring kea and working to reduce conflicts between humans and these curious birds are two ways DOC is working to protect this amazing species.
You can help kea by minimising contact. Don't feed kea and keep temptations out of their way. If you see a banded kea please report it to the nearest DOC office.
It's not just humans who flock to the ski fields each winter. At Treble Cone, near Wanaka, some cheeky locals turn the ski field and car park into their playground. Watch this video to find out who they are.
The kea, known to many of us for its high altitude antics, is in trouble. Once common around the South Island mountains, it is now thought to number only around a few thousand birds.
Listen to or download a recording of kea song.
View the Kea - Mountain Parrot documentary on NZ on Screen
DOC HOTline - 24 hour emergency number
Phone 0800 DOC HOTline (0800 362 468) to report:
Sick or injured wildlife Whale or dolphin strandings
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