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Unlike most parrots, the kea is adapted to a non-tropical mountain climate and will eat nearly anything edible. Famous for its curiosity and playfulness, the kea has been known to cause quite a bit of damage to the sealing around car windows and windshield wipers with its long, sharp beak.

The Zoo cares for the largest group of kea – a highly intelligent mountain parrot from New Zealand – in North America and is committed to the conservation of this species.

kea side profile

Did You Know?

Some scientists even think that kea might be as smart as a 4 year old child! That's pretty smart.

Quick Facts

Latin Name:
Nestor notabilis

Range:
New Zealand

Length:
1.6 ft

Lifespan:
8 yrs

Diet:
Plants, animals, and carrion

Risk Status:
Species at Risk (IUCN—Vulnerable)