Kea: Mountain Parrot (Wild South)

They are mischievous characters: clever thieves, hard-hearted killers, kidnappers... and hilariously funny. Are they characters from the latest Hollywood blockbuster or from our own back yard?

Meet the Kea - New Zealand's mountain parrot - a uniquely intelligent and bold creature that lives high in the mountains amid rock and snow, who has been dubbed the "clown of the Alps".

Are these birds just naturally inquisitive and resourceful; brilliantly adapted to live in extreme mountain conditions? Are they as innocent as many would suppose?

Many high country farmers, recreational users and tourists say the Kea is nothing but a hooligan - and they have grown tired of its antics. They say the bird is criminal and must pay for its crimes. They charge the Kea with more than petty theft and vandalism - they accuse it of murder. No other bird has ever been so actively persecuted and yet fiercely protected.

This classic documentary examines both the public and private life of one of the world's most controversial birds - the Kea.

All Regions - Regular 1.33:1 / 4:3 Full Screen - Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo - Colour - PAL