Our cheeky mountain parrots the 'Kea' are not to be missed! Unique to the South Island of New Zealand, the Kea has been scientifically proven to be one of the world's most intelligent creatures.
A very mischievous bird, this is the parrot which has been known to dismantle motor vehicles and other property with their very strong beaks. There used to be a bounty on their heads and many of these birds were hunted - but they are now protected by New Zealand law. Cheeky chaps.
A walk-through extension was added to our Kea aviary in late 2008, allowing you to be in with some of these cheeky parrots! The entrance is through a replica high country musterers hut, typically found in areas of the South Island.
Current residents in the walk-through are our oldest Kea who is 24 years old, our youngest 'Bumfree' who is 14 years old, plus our only female. Our other three Kea can still be seen in their aviary adjacent to the walk-through.
Check out the Kea Conservation Trust Website. On this site you will find out information about one of New Zealands most charismatic species inclusive of current research, threats to kea and how you can make a difference.
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