Kea
NameKea
Common NameKea
Scientific NameNestor notabilis
FamilyStrigopidae
Wingspan (cm)85
Length (cm)48
Weight (g)850
Plumage DetailsPredominantly olive-green plumage with a dull blue back and rump. The underwings are a striking bright orange-red, visible during flight, and the primary feathers are dark blue. It has a long, narrow, curved grey-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 other squawks, trills, and whistles.
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, Bright orange-red underwings visible in flight, Long, curved upper beak, Loud 'keee-ah' call, Highly intelligent and curious behavior, Found in alpine environments
Description
The Kea is a large, intelligent parrot endemic to the South Island of New Zealand, known for its olive-green plumage and curious, playful nature. It is often found in alpine and subalpine environments, where it forages for a diverse diet.
