The kea (Nestor notabilis) is a large parrot unique to the south island of New Zealand. Typically, they are spotted in the New Zealand Alps; however, researchers describe the bird as a “generalist” capable of survival in nonalpine regions.1 Keas are omnivores and have a reputation for eating (or attempting to eat) just about anything. They are also inquisitive and intelligent. Like apes, keas can use statistical inference to solve problems.2 Kiwis joke that keas are smarter than toddlers. Combining their curiosity and willingness to put their beak on just about anything, the kea can be a real nuisance in the backcountry. These “cheeky” birds have been known to gnaw on or fly off with everything from socks and mitts to carabiners and climbing harnesses. A link for a video of a kea stealing a GoPro and taking some selfie areal footage is available from Baker.3
A kea having its way with a hiking boot outside the Pompolona Hut on the Milford Track, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand (GPS: 44°49’42.10” S and 167°48’0.18” E).
A kea outside the Colin Todd Hut on Mt. Aspiring in the New Zealand Alps (GPS: 44°22’19.45” S and 168°41’40.38” E).
References
1.
MartiniDDussexNRobertsonBCGemmellNJKnappM. Evolution of the “world’s only alpine parrot”: genomic adaptation or phenotypic plasticity, behaviour and ecology?Mol Ecol. 2021;30(23):6370-86. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/mec.15978
