What’s the difference between a kākā and a kea?
New Zealand is home to some of the world’s quirkiest birds, and our native parrots are a perfect example. The kākāpō (Strigops habroptilus) the giant, nocturnal, flightless parrot has captured international fame for its unusual behaviour and conservation story (the classic video of Stephen Fry meeting Sirocco the kakapo is a good example). But its lesser-known cousins, the kākā and the kea, are just as full of personality.
Coming in to land, kea, Fiordland NZ
The kea (Nestor notabilis) is found only in New Zealand’s South Island, and it holds the title of the world’s only alpine parrot. Adapted to life among snowfields and rocky ridgelines, kea rely on sharp intelligence and boundless curiosity to survive. They are notorious problem-solvers and are capable of working cooperatively, opening packs, and even dismantling equipment, which is all part of their evolutionary toolkit for thriving in a challenging mountain environment. Arguably though, pulling the rubber off an unsuspecting tourist’s rental car has little evolutionary benefit, except for the entertainment of the birds who rapidly make themselves scarce as rain seeps into the, now damaged, vehicle. You can almost hear them laugh.
The Forest’s Storyteller
By contrast, the kākā (Nestor meridionalis) is the forest-dwelling relative, found in both the North and South Islands. With their warm olive and russet plumage and a fondness for nectar, fruit, and insects, kākā play an important ecological role as pollinators and seed dispersers.
Kākā are highly social, often heard before they’re seen, filling the forest with harsh calls, whistles, and chatter. In places like Rakiura Stewart Island, they have a lively and much-loved presence, often in noisy, chattering flocks. On occasion one will ‘drop in’ on a house (or picnic) but don’t be fooled, these loveable birds do not need to be fed (in fact, that is frowned upon as it causes dependence, can spread disease among the birds and can cause physiological problems).
The tell-tale sign of kākā being present can be found in the forest of Ulva Island where old trees have been dismantled by the sharp beak of the bird.
Come to Rakiura Stewart Island and get up close to one of these incredible birds.
(Photo credit: Helen Darling)
