The Kea is a large, intelligent parrot endemic to the alpine regions of New Zealand's South Island, famous for its inquisitive nature and often mischievous behavior.
Where to spot
Alpine and sub-alpine forests and scrublands of the South Island of New Zealand, often seen around ski fields, mountain huts, and tourist areas.
How to spot
Look for its olive-green plumage with brilliant orange underwings (visible in flight). Listen for its distinctive, loud, drawn-out 'keee-ah' call. They are quite bold, often approaching humans.
When to spot
Active during the day, especially prominent during warmer hours. Observable year-round.
Where to spot
Alpine and sub-alpine forests and scrublands of the South Island of New Zealand, often seen around ski fields, mountain huts, and tourist areas.
How to spot
Look for its olive-green plumage with brilliant orange underwings (visible in flight). Listen for its distinctive, loud, drawn-out 'keee-ah' call. They are quite bold, often approaching humans.
When to spot
Active during the day, especially prominent during warmer hours. Observable year-round.
The Kea is the world's only alpine parrot, adapted to harsh mountain environments, and is notorious for its curiosity, often investigating and even dismantling human belongings.
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