South Island Kākā

The Forest Acrobat

Meet the South Island kākā, a vibrant, intelligent forest parrot with rich brown feathers and flashes of red beneath its wings.

Active and curious, exploring treetops and forest floors, calling and playing as they go.

Shy yet social, kākā are threatened by habitat loss and introduced predators and at Willowbank, we’re proud to support their future with a breeding pair on-site, helping protect this special native species.

South Island Kākā Facts

Found In

South Island

Found only in New Zealand’s South Island, they thrive in mature native forests with plenty of trees for feeding, nesting, and shelter.

Habitat

Native Forests

South Island kākā live in native forests, especially those with tall trees, dense canopy, and plenty of undergrowth. These habitats provide food, nesting sites, and protection from predators.

Diet

Omnivore

South Island kākā are omnivores, feeding on seeds, fruits, nectar, and insects. Their strong beaks help them strip bark, dig for grubs, and access a wide variety of forest foods.

Behaviour

Intelligent

Intelligent, social, and active during the day, they move through treetops and forest floors, calling, foraging, and interacting in small flocks. Shy yet curious, with a playful and investigative nature.

Size

45-50cm

South Island kākā are medium-sized parrots, measuring about 45–50 cm in length and weighing around 400–600 g.

Life Span

20-25 years

South Island kākā can live for 20–25 years in the wild, with some individuals reaching up to 50 years in protected environments.

Conservation Status

Endangered

South Island kākā are classified as Endangered. Their populations are threatened by predation from introduced mammals, habitat loss, and human disturbance.

Willowbank Location