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Story: Birds of mountains and open country

Kea nest with eggs and a chick

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Kea nest chambers are often at the end of a tunnel through rock debris or among tree roots. The chicks are very underdeveloped when they hatch, and need warmth and care as well as food. They stay in the nest for over three months.

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How to cite this page

Christina Troup, Birds of mountains and open country – Kea – the mountain parrot, Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, https://teara.govt.nz/en/video/14007/kea-nest-with-eggs-and-a-chick (accessed 4 June 2026).

Story by Christina Troup, published 1 March 2009.