One of the ten parrots endemic to New Zealand, the Kea is a mischievous parrot of the alpine regions of the South Island, being the only alpine parrot in the world. They eat anything from roots, nectar, insects, to carrion. They were once killed due to tendency to sometimes attack and kill sheep for food.

Like other parents, they are highly intelligence, and can solve puzzles and work together toward a common goal. However, they are threatened by both lead poisoning, purposeful killings by farmers, and other environmental threats.