The New Zealand parrot known for its clever problem-solving abilities is the kea. This mountain parrot, scientifically called Nestor notabilis, lives mainly in the South Island’s alpine environments, where harsh weather and seasonal food shortages reward flexible behavior.
Kea have solved multi-step puzzles involving locks, barriers, pushing, and pulling, and studies show they can learn through observation and trial and error. They have also demonstrated cooperation: two birds may coordinate their actions to obtain food, a rare ability among animals and an especially striking one in a parrot.
Their intelligence is closely linked to their curiosity. Kea investigate unfamiliar objects with their bills and feet, which can lead them to interact with backpacks, cars, and other human belongings. This does not mean every New Zealand parrot is equally famous for problem-solving. The kaka and kakapo are also native parrots, but the kea is the species most strongly associated with alpine cleverness and inquisitive behavior.
Kea are omnivores and eat plant material, insects, and other foods, helping explain why broad foraging skills are valuable in their variable mountain habitat.