New Zealand Kaka

1. Bright red-orange underwing visible during flight

2. Large, curved beak perfect for foraging and climbing

3. Noisy, social behaviour often seen in flocks

Kākā are highly intelligent and adaptable. They nest in tree cavities, with breeding pairs often returning to the same site year after year. These parrots face threats from introduced predators like stoats and possums, but conservation efforts are helping populations recover in some areas.

Look for kākā in native forests, especially areas with tall trees. They're most active at dawn and dusk, often seen flying between treetops or hanging upside-down to feed. Urban areas near sanctuaries, like Wellington's green belt, are increasingly good spots to find them. Listen for their raucous calls and watch for movement high in the canopy \- they're surprisingly active for their size.

Kākā have long been important in Māori culture, valued for their feathers and as forest kaitiaki (guardians). Their name in te reo Māori is onomatopoeic, mimicking their distinctive call. Once abundant across New Zealand, their numbers declined with forest clearance and predation.