Six years of supporting kea conservation [NZ]Friday 25 Sep 2026
Over six years, the work has covered:
Why kea matter Kea are one of New Zealand’s most recognisable native birds, known for their intelligence, curiosity and adaptability. However, they are also nationally endangered, with populations facing ongoing pressure from introduced predators, habitat change and interactions with people. While kea are often associated with alpine and native forest environments, relatively little was known about their use of plantation forests when OneFortyOne first partnered with the Kea Conservation Trust. Forestry workers regularly reported sightings, but there was limited scientific evidence showing how these landscapes fitted into the birds’ wider ecology. Understanding kea in plantation forests Research led by Lincoln University researcher Jodanne Aitken began in 2020 and sought to better understand how kea use plantation forests in the Nelson Tasman region. Using GPS tracking, field observations and diet analysis, the research showed that kea were regular users of plantation forests rather than occasional visitors. The study found that kea used plantation forests for feeding and movement throughout the forest landscape. Researchers observed birds feeding on pine seed, huhu grubs and other invertebrates, demonstrating that plantation forests provide resources that kea actively utilise. The research also showed how plantation and native forests function together as part of a wider habitat network used by kea. These findings challenged assumptions about kea habitat use and confirmed that plantation forests can play an important role within the landscapes occupied by kea. Alongside the ecological research, the programme also helped improve understanding of how forestry operations and kea can coexist. Kea are notorious for investigating machinery, vehicles and equipment, which can sometimes create challenges on operational sites. Over the years, researchers worked alongside forestry staff and contractors, sharing information about kea behaviour and providing practical advice to help reduce interactions. While conflict management was never the focus of a dedicated research project, it remained an important part of the partnership. According to Jodanne, one of the positive outcomes has been the willingness of forestry crews to support conservation efforts despite the challenges that can arise when kea are present on site. More >> Source & image credit: OneFortyOne  | ||
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