
Kea
Meet the clever mountain explorers with a playful spirit!

The Basics
Scientific Name
Nestor notabilis
Conservation Status
Endangered
Location
New Zealand
Average size
18 to 19 inches tall
diet
Berries, leaves, insects
lifespan
15 to 20 years
Let’s Explore
Overview
The Kea is a playful and intelligent bird native to New Zealand. It stands about 46 to 48 centimeters tall, which is roughly the size of a medium dog!
This colorful parrot has a mix of green and orange feathers, with stunning orange under its wings. Keas have a curious personality, often getting into trouble by exploring and interacting with their surroundings.
Kea love to munch on berries, leaves, and insects, making them omnivores. They have strong, curved beaks designed to pull apart tough plants and dig into the ground for tasty snacks.
These birds have a surprisingly long lifespan for their size, living up to 20 years in the wild. That means they can be lifelong friends to their flock!
Kea are known for their clever tricks and problem-solving skills, often using tools to reach food. They enjoy playing games and can even slide down snowy slopes just for fun!
These delightful creatures are part of the parrot family, which means they are relatives of the colorful and chatty parrots you might see in a pet store. Keas stand out with their unique antics and charming behavior, making them a true treasure of New Zealand's wildlife.
Where can you find a Kea in the wild?
What does a Kea eat?
How big can a Kea grow?
How long does a Kea typically live?
What is the conservation status of the Kea?
What are the main threats to the Kea?
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