The kea is a large, intelligent parrot of New Zealand’s Southern Alps. Bold and mischievous, it is famous among visitors for investigating cars, backpacks and people.
Interesting facts
- Kea are famous for their curiosity and have been known to pull rubber seals off cars.
- Their olive-green feathers hide bright orange-red underwings.
- In experiments, kea solve puzzles and use tools.
- About 150,000 kea were killed under a government bounty before 1970, because they were blamed for attacking sheep.
- Only a few thousand kea remain in the wild.
- Feeding kea is harmful and discouraged.
Behaviour
Kea live in social groups and spend much time playing. They forage on the ground and in trees and are active in the snow.
Breeding and young
Kea nest in holes in the ground among tree roots or rocks. Females lay two to four eggs and raise the chicks while males bring food.
Threats and conservation
Predation by introduced stoats and possums, lead poisoning from old buildings, human conflict, and road deaths.
Where to see it
- Arthur’s Pass National Park, New Zealand
- Homer Tunnel on the Milford Road, New Zealand
- Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand
- Ski fields of the Southern Alps
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
New Zealand Wildlife Guide: Kiwi, Kea, Penguins and Whales
Seeing Wild Kiwi on Stewart Island
