Kea
NameKea
Common NameKea
Scientific NameNestor notabilis
FamilyStrigopidae
Wingspan (cm)85
Length (cm)48
Weight (g)900
Plumage DetailsPredominantly olive-green plumage with a dull orange-red rump and underwing coverts, which are striking blue-green when the wings are spread in flight. It has a greyish-brown beak, cere, and legs, with a yellow-orange eye ring.
Vocalization / CallIts name comes from its loud, high-pitched, drawn-out 'ke-aaa' call. It also produces a variety of squawks, whistles, and chattering 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 Featuresolive-green plumage, orange-red rump, blue-green underwings (visible in flight), long, curved upper beak, alpine habitat, distinctive 'ke-aaa' call
Description
The Kea is a large, intelligent parrot endemic to the South Island of New Zealand, known for its olive-green plumage and curious, often mischievous, nature. It is the world's only alpine parrot, adapted to harsh mountain environments.
