Education of Zoo Visitors and Advocacy of Kea - Kea Conservation ...

The Captive Management Plan for captive Kea is not adhered to in some cases and the
goals are not being met concerning education and advocacy. New Zealand zoos and
the Department of Conservation need to work together to improve this. One of The
Department of Conservation functions is to advocate for native species, both
documents, which have been produced regarding Kea, should be followed up and an
assessment of impact these documents may have had. Certain statements within these
documents need to be reviewed if the public is going to form a different opinion of
this species.
Kea are unique in the natural world, have survived and thrived in the harshest of
environments, despite all threats to them. This species are icons, are highly intelligent,
have the ability to fascinate and entertain tourists as well as New Zealanders therefore
should be promoted for these qualities.
48