Kea
Image: Marley (cc-by-nc)
NameKea
Common NameKea
Scientific NameNestor notabilis
FamilyNestoridae
Wingspan (cm)82.5
Length (cm)48
Weight (g)900
Plumage DetailsPredominantly olive-green plumage with a darker crown and nape. The most striking feature is the brilliant orange-red underwing coverts, visible in flight. The rump is also reddish-orange, and the beak is long, narrow, and strongly curved, dark grey.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its distinctive, loud, high-pitched 'keee-ah' call, which gives the bird its name. They also produce a variety of other squawks, trills, and whistles.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsalpine forests, subalpine scrub, alpine grasslands, mountainous regions
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to the alpine and subalpine regions of the South Island of New Zealand.
Identifying FeaturesLarge, olive-green parrot, Brilliant orange-red underwings (visible in flight), Long, curved, dark grey beak, Highly intelligent and curious behavior, Distinctive 'keee-ah' call
Description
The Kea is a large, intelligent parrot endemic to the South Island of New Zealand, known for its olive-green plumage and brilliant orange underwings. Highly curious and often interacting with humans, it is the world's only alpine parrot. They are known for their playful and destructive nature.
