How intelligent are kea compared to cockatoos?

A study found kea demonstrated more sophisticated emotional responses, like surprise and disappointment, in an intelligence test, outperforming cockatoos.

What conservation efforts are in place for kea?

Conservation efforts focus on protecting endangered kea from lead poisoning and educating the public on responsible interactions.

Why are kea putting cones on the road?

While not explicitly stated as a conservation issue, kea have been observed moving road cones, likely out of curiosity.

Home / Science / Kea Outsmart Cockatoos in Surprise Test

Kea Outsmart Cockatoos in Surprise Test

23 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Kea displayed surprise and disappointment when deceived with less desirable food.
Cockatoos showed no reaction to the same bait-and-switch food experiment.
Endangered kea face lead poisoning from chewing hut nails and carcasses.

New research from the University of Vienna indicates that New Zealand's native kea possess a higher level of intelligence compared to cockatoos. The study, which examined emotional responses to deception, found that kea reacted with visible surprise and disappointment when presented with less desirable food than anticipated.

In contrast, cockatoos did not exhibit similar reactions during the same experimental conditions. Conservationists highlight that this finding aligns with observations of kea's exceptional cognitive abilities, noting their problem-solving skills and cooperative behaviors.

Despite their intelligence, kea remain an endangered species facing threats like lead poisoning from common materials and ammunition. Conservation trusts are actively working to remove lead sources and encourage responsible public interaction to ensure the survival of these curious birds.