Coordinator: Tony Pullar

Habitat and Distribution: Inhabits South Island high country forests and mountains.

Characteristics: Olive green plumage and large hooked beak distinguish it from South Island Kaka. Orange underwing prominent in flight. Confiding, inquisitive and destructive to human belongings.

Voice: High pitched 'kee-aa' call, especially when flying, also softer mumuring and whistling calls.

Food: Seeds, foliage, fruits, insects and nectar. Will utilise any protein source available at high altitude including dead or dieing sheep

Breeding: Unlike other parrots, the Kea builds a nest of sticks, grasses, moss and lichens, usually under rock above the bushline or in a forest clearing. Clutch of 2 or 3 white eggs is laid from August to January. Incubation period 23 - 24 days. Males sometimes mate with two or more females.

Captive Program:

Associated Documents: