Keas, NZ

Burke's Backyard Overseas

The Kea (Nestor notabilis) is an alpine parrot that lives in the high country of the South Island of New Zealand. It is a drab, olive green colour, with bright orangey red underneath the wings. Keas are opportunistic feeders accused of scavenging off sheep carcasses, which has led to conflict with sheep farmers. As many as 150,000 birds were shot and trapped over the past 130 years. Kea populations declined until 1986, when they were declared a protected species. The size of the wild population is estimated at between 1,000 and 5,000 birds.

Keas are bold, inquisitive, intelligent and playful. Don thinks these fascinating little creatures are every bit as smart as a dog, if not smarter.

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