What Odd Thing Can Happen to a Parked Car in New Zealand?

While New Zealand is home to many animal species found nowhere else in the world, they are usually benign and unlikely to bother humans. New Zealand has no snakes, only two species of dangerous spiders, and no native mammals at all, aside from a few species of bat. However, one bird species native to New Zealand can pose a bit of a risk -- not to humans, but to their vehicles.

In the mountainous regions of the South Island of New Zealand lives the kea, the only alpine parrot species in the world. Like other parrot species, the kea is intelligent, curious, and relatively unafraid of humans. However, unlike other parrot species, keas seem to enjoy ripping away parts from parked cars and will destroy almost anything else left unsupervised in their vicinity. As they live in areas frequented by skiers and tourists, many people have encountered the kea and ended up losing their windscreen wipers as a result.

More About New Zealand's keas:

• Keas were once widely hunted because of their unfortunate tendency to go after sheep as a food source. However, after a close brush with extinction, the birds are now a protected species in New Zealand.
• Keas are a dull green color everywhere except the undersides of their wings, which are lined with bright orange feathers.
• While it is difficult to decisively measure the kea population, in 2014 it was believed that there were just 1,000 to 4,000 keas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What unique issue do parked cars in New Zealand face?

In New Zealand, parked cars can become the unexpected victims of Kea parrots. These intelligent birds have developed a peculiar interest in stripping rubber and other soft materials from vehicles, such as windshield wipers and door seals, often causing significant damage and leaving car owners baffled and frustrated.

Why do Kea parrots target parked cars?

Kea parrots are naturally curious and highly intelligent, leading them to explore and manipulate their environment using their beaks. Parked cars present an intriguing puzzle for these birds, with their shiny surfaces and interesting textures. The Keas' playful and investigative behaviors drive them to pull at anything they can, including parts of cars.

Are there any preventative measures to protect cars from Kea parrots?

Yes, car owners can take several preventative measures. Covering the car with a tarp or using specially designed car covers can deter Keas. Parking in enclosed areas or using deterrents like reflective tape or fake predators can also help. Some areas provide 'Kea-proof' parking with structures to protect vehicles from these curious birds.

What should you do if you encounter a Kea parrot near your vehicle?

If you encounter a Kea parrot near your vehicle, it's best to gently shoo the bird away without harming it, as Keas are a protected species. Remove any visible items that might attract the bird's attention, and if possible, move your car to a less accessible location or one where Keas are less active.

How significant is the damage Kea parrots can cause to vehicles?

The damage caused by Kea parrots can be quite significant, potentially costing hundreds of dollars in repairs. They can strip significant amounts of rubber from doors and windows, damage car antennas, and even pull apart softer materials like foam seats if they gain access to the interior of the vehicle.

Are Kea parrots a common problem throughout New Zealand?

Kea parrots are native to the South Island of New Zealand and are particularly common in alpine regions. While they are not a problem in urban areas, they are known to frequent car parks in mountainous areas where tourists often stop, making encounters with these birds more likely in those specific locations.