West Coast Birdlife: Meet the Kea

New Zealand’s West Coast is world-famous for its glaciers, wild rainforests and moody coastlines. It’s also home to some of New Zealand’s most remarkable native birds. One of the most charismatic? The kea.

Kea are called the clown of the mountains being the world’s only alpine parrot. Known for its intelligence, curiosity and mischief, this native bird is as cheeky as it is clever. Scientists study kea for their problem-solving abilities, which are comparable to a primate or even a human child. In short, they’re brainy, bold, and wildly entertaining.

Kea Sightings Around Lake Mapourika

We’re lucky to see kea regularly around Franz Josef Glacier and the surrounding area, and more often than ever around Lake Mapourika. In fact, there’s a nest on the back side of Lake Mapourika near our walking track. Kea often make themselves known during our Kayak & Walk Tour and are sometimes spotted during our Scenic Cruises as they glide above the lake or call from the canopy. Their cries echo across the calm water and rainforest, making for a truly special wildlife encounter.

Closer to home, we see them daily above our quad bike shed when we’re gearing up for an Off-Road Adventure tour. They’ve been known to peck holes in our seats or test the durability of a paddleboard or two. Despite the occasional bit of mischief, we love these birds — and their presence always brings a smile.

Kea captured on camera during a guided Kayak & Walk tour on Lake Mapourika.

Kea Life in the Wild

Kea nest in rocky crevices and tunnels in the mountains, raising up to four chicks over a three-month period. Young birds stay together for their first year, learning how to forage and explore their alpine world. Though playful, kea are also opportunists, they’ve been observed preying on other birds, and historically even pecking at sheep, which led to their near-extinction in the 1800s. Today, they’re a protected species, but still face threats from introduced predators. Monitoring has shown that up to 60% of nests can be lost to predation.

A True Icon of New Zealand Wildlife

With their bright green plumage, striking orange underwings, and unmistakable personality, kea are a true icon of the South Island. Whether you’re cruising Lake Mapourika, walking through podocarp forest, or gearing up for an off-road adventure — don’t be surprised if a kea drops by to say hello (or chew something important).