nestor kaka Nestor meridionalis

A large, olive-brown parrot endemic to New Zealand. Adults have a deep crimson belly and undertail with a red-orange underwing. South Island birds are brighter with a white crown. Juveniles have a yellow base to their lower bill. A forest-dwelling parrot that is more common on offshore islands, but flourishes in areas where mammalian predators are controlled; some visit city and rural gardens. Harsh, grating “kra-aa” call is often heard before the bird is seen. The species also whistles a series of tuneful notes while perched. Distinguishable from Kea by smaller size, olive-brown as opposed to olive-green plumage, and range.