This is a standoff! "My beak is sharp and I want your pie"! Father and son try to protect their lunch from this bird who advanced repeatedly and wouldn't fly off!
This is in Arthurs Pass in the middle of the South Island on a mountainous region but the road runs right through.
The Kea is one of ten parrot species endemic to New Zealand.
Called "the clown of the mountains", it will investigate backpacks, boots or even cars, often causing damage or flying off with smaller items.
Feeding Kea has been shown to have a detrimental effect on the birds' health and well-being and is thought to contribute to their destructive behavior. Despite notices everywhere NOT to feed the bird, I watched a tourist offer her sandwich to it. Another tourist pointed out the sign. The lady apologized.. to the bird... and continued in a sing song voice, how the poor wee bird is not going to have any food!
