Kea
NameKea
Common NameKea
Scientific NameNestor notabilis
FamilyStrigopidae
Wingspan (cm)85
Length (cm)48
Weight (g)900
Plumage DetailsPredominantly olive-green with a darker crown and nape. The underwings are a striking orange-red, visible during flight. The rump is also reddish-orange, and the flight feathers have blue-green outer webs. It has a long, curved, dark grey-brown upper beak.
Vocalization / CallIts name is derived from its loud, high-pitched, drawn-out 'keee-ah' call, which can be heard echoing through the mountains.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsalpine, forest, shrubland
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to the mountainous regions of the South Island of New Zealand, primarily found in high-altitude forests and alpine areas.
Identifying FeaturesLarge olive-green parrot, Long, curved upper beak, Brilliant orange-red underwings, Loud 'keee-ah' call, Highly intelligent and curious nature
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, behavior. It is the world's only alpine parrot, thriving in harsh mountain environments.
