Kea
Image: hottawajamie (cc-by-nc)
NameKea
Common NameKea
Scientific NameNestor notabilis
FamilyNestoridae
Wingspan (cm)85
Length (cm)48
Weight (g)850
Plumage DetailsPredominantly olive-green plumage with a dull orange-red rump and bright orange underwings, visible during flight. The crown and nape are brownish-green, and the feathers are edged with dark brown. It has a long, narrow, curved dark-brown upper beak.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its distinctive, loud, high-pitched call, often described as 'keee-ah' or 'ke-aa', which gives the bird its name. They also produce a variety of chattering, squawking, and trilling sounds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsalpine, subalpine forest, scrubland, grassland
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to the alpine and subalpine regions of the South Island of New Zealand.
Identifying FeaturesLarge olive-green parrot, Long, curved upper beak, Bright orange underwings (visible in flight), Reddish-orange rump, Alpine habitat, Highly intelligent and curious behavior
Description
The Kea is a large, intelligent parrot endemic to the South Island of New Zealand, known for its olive-green plumage and highly curious, often mischievous, behavior. It is the world's only alpine parrot, adapted to harsh mountain environments where it forages for a diverse diet.
