Story: Birds of mountains and open country

Kea beak brooch

Kea beak brooch

This brooch was made from two kea bills by silversmith William McBride of Timaru, around 1905. At that time kea were not protected – in fact, they were killed for a bounty.

Using this item

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
Reference: GH006473

Permission of the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa must be obtained before any re-use of this image.

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How to cite this page:

Christina Troup, 'Birds of mountains and open country - Kea and people', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/object/14012/kea-beak-brooch (accessed 29 March 2024)

Story by Christina Troup, published 24 Sep 2007, reviewed & revised 17 Feb 2015