Size	48 cm (19 in)
Weight	850-950 g (1.8-2 lb)
Conservation Status	On the 2007 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, the kea is listed as Vulnerable.
Diet
Geographic Range	New Zealand, South Island
Where to find me in the Zoo	Dodge Rare Animal Conservation Center

Although appearing all olive green in color at a distance, close inspection reveals black edges to the feathers with the head color more brownish and the wing edges having a bluish tinge. Under the wings there are red and yellow feathers that are displayed in flight. Young keas have a yellow ring around the eye and a yellow cere (located just above the bill). This yellow darkens with age and is completely dark by 3-4 years. This is one of the few parrots that can live in an alpine habitat.

Longevity

Reported to live an average of 14 years in the wild but this is likely an underestimate. In captivity, commonly live into their 20's with individuals living into their 30's

Behavior

Keas are curious and intelligent birds that can be very playful. Young keas play with all kinds of objects and often chase and wrestle with other keas. These smart and curious birds can be very destructive, manipulating everything with their long, curved bills.

Reproduction

Male keas become sexually mature at 4-5 years of age. Females may breed as early as age 3. They nest in cavities and lay 2-4 eggs in a clutch. Incubation is 3-4 weeks with nestlings fledging between 9 and 13 weeks.