The Kea(Nestor notabilis), Also known as the Mountain Parrot is a New Zealand parrot that is classified in the order Psittaciformes and the family Strigopidae.
Physical Characteristics
Adult Keas bodies are olive green, the head is brown, the eyes are dark brown, and there is a gray ring around each eye; the undersides of the wings are orange; the back and rump are orange/red; the outer areas of the primary flight feathers are dull blue; the undersides of the primary flight feathers are orange/yellow. The bill is grey/brown and projecting with an elongated upper mandible. The female’s bill is shorter, and her upper mandible is less decurved.
Juveniles are very similar to the adults in appearance but its cere and eye rings are yellow instead of gray, and the base of the lower mandible is orange/yellow.
| Length | 46-50 cm (1’6.1”-1’7.7”) |
| Wingspan | Approximately 1 m(3’3.4″) |
| Weight | 750 grams-1 kg(1.65-2.2 lbs.) |
Range
Keas live on the South Island of New Zealand. The Kea is a year-round resident throughout its range.
Habitat
The Kea inhabits native forest in steep side valleys. Keas can also be found near human settlements.
Breeding
The Kea breeds typically between July and January. However Keas have been known to breed other times of the year except late autumn. A Kea places its nest in a crevice under rocks or in tree roots, or in a hollow log. The clutch size is 2-4 eggs; the eggs are white. The female incubates the eggs for 21 to 30 days. Keas reach sexual maturity at approximately 3 years old.
Diet
Keas eat; berries, shoots, roots, seeds, nectar, insects, carrion, and garbage.
Predators
Stoats, cats, and possums prey on the Kea. Rats prey on Kea eggs.
Conservation Status
The Kea is listed as endangered.
Definitions
- Cere. A cere is a fleshy covering of the base of the upper mandible of a bird, through which the nares open.
- Nares. The nares are a birds nostrils. Singular: naris.
Fun Facts
- A Kea learned to turn on the water tap at Aspiring Hut campground.
- A kea learned to use tools to set off weasel traps to get the eggs that were being used as bait.
- Keas have been observed “sledding” down the A-frame roof of an alpine resort on its back.
- .A Kea can live for up to 50 years.
