(Nestor notabilis) Husbandry Manual - Kea Conservation Trust

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(Each additional kea = 3m³)
It is important to remember that more birds in an enclosure are likely to increase
conflict issues, particularly in the case of pairings. As such simply increasing by a
further 90m3/bird may not be adequate in some instances. Groupings of 6+ kea
must be closely monitored to ensure that subordinate birds do not become
aggressed by dominant birds or breeding pairs. Although kea can form large
flocks in the wild, these tend to be fluid groupings of juveniles and sub adult birds
moving over an extensive area prior to pairs forming and establishing breeding
territories (Clarke, 1970).
Height of the enclosure must be a minimum of 3 metres. All other proportions are
up to the holder assuming that the minimum area is surpassed.
The dimensions above are to be reviewed and may also be determined by group
makeup (i.e. a breeding pair may be intolerant of other females in their
environment whereas flocking juveniles/sub-adults may be more comfortable in
larger groups).
If birds are to be kept in below minimum housing areas for longer than 6 months,
an exemption will need to be applied for (to be reviewed 6 monthly thereafter)
Exceptions to housing standards:
Kea less than three months old or undergoing medical treatment or quarantine
can be held in any enclosure suitable for housing an individual of that life stage
and/or medical condition temporarily (e.g. brooders, small enclosures, if required
to limit movement of injured birds).
Although kea should never be housed singly long-term, birds which have not
been properly socialised (i.e. are hand reared and are unable to be integrated
with other kea) may require a separate enclosure. This must have a minimum
volume of 108m3 (6x6x3m). The number of birds unable to be integrated will
decrease over time as current practice ensures birds are appropriately socialised.
4.1.4 Materials for housing
(For a list of housing materials and sources, refer to Appendix 3).
All materials used in the construction of kea enclosures (both public display and
holding facilities) should be durable, non-toxic and of a strength that can
withstand manipulation by kea beaks.
• Mesh – mesh size should ideally exclude entrance of pest species into the
enclosure (e.g. mice, rats and sparrows). Care must be taken with
galvanized welded mesh that poisoning does not occur through ingesting
of coating (this should not occur in a well equipped and enriched
enclosure). Mesh should extend into the ground (or conversely
foundations should extend above ground level) to ensure that kea do not
dig out under enclosure perimeter. Breach of containment through digging
by kea has been observed.
Kea Conservation Trust Final 25/11/2010