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Kea Parrots, Nestor notabilis, are not only an important part of the New Zealand ecosystem because of their unique pollination and reproductive traits, but they are also extremely smart. Kea have an almost human-like demeanor that charms even the most hesitant of heart. Kea will bashfully peck at a friendly hiker’s shoe, or “caw” playfully from the rocks and trees it calls home. Kea are extremely social, and may even be more mischievous than thought when given the chance. Kea live together in flocks of 13, but can forage and hunt in groups of up to 20 (“Kea - Facts, Diet, Habitat & Pictures on Animalia.bio,” 2021).
Kea are classified by the ICUN Redlist as an endangered species, and this crippling statistic will only get worse. If action is not taken, Kea may face extinction and by then, it will be too late to save this spirited creature of the mountains. Kea, although a social animal, produce relatively small broods. The incubation period is 21-30 days and females will typically lay 2-5 eggs. Chicks are independent at 18 weeks, then they will leave their nest and travel with the flock until sexually mature. At 3-4 years they are ready to mate and will leave the flock and form pairs for breeding.
Unique Alpine Biome
Found primarily in high-altitude areas, the Kea's home is classified as an alpine biome, which means there are hardly any trees and altitudes are usually about 10,000 feet. (“KDE Santa Barbara,” 2022) The birds who live on the West side of the island of New Zealand persevere through this tough ecosuystem as best they can, but they need our help!
‘Unlike the Kakas, who have a dozen different cries, the Kea has just one, weird, Key-a Key-a, hence its name. Sounding like the wail of a lost spirit, the cry is rather a startling sensation while climbing a dangerous precipice, suggesting a possible corpse lying a thousand feet below, with the kea standing on the head picking out the eyes … Every time a fellow goes among the ranges he sees some new antic or piece of impudence among the keas. They have taken to sliding down the roofs of the iron huts the government have put up for tourists, taking time about at the amusement.’
-Charlie Douglas, Explorer Extraordinaire, in his 1899 Monologue On Birds
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