The yellow-crowned parakeet also known as the yellow-fronted parakeet is a species of parakeet endemic to the islands of New Zealand. The species is found across the main three islands of New Zealand, North Island, South Island and Stewart Island/Rakiura, as well as on the subantarctic Auckland Islands. It has declined due to predation from introduced species such as stoats, although unlike the red-crowned parakeet, it has not been extirpated from the mainland of New Zealand. Its Māori name is kākāriki.
Region
New Zealand and subantarctic Auckland Islands
Typical Environment
Primarily inhabits native beech and podocarp-broadleaf forests, shrublands, and forest edges. It also uses regenerating bush, riparian margins, and subalpine scrub, and persists on several predator-managed offshore islands. Birds forage from the canopy down to understory shrubs and sometimes the ground. They are most frequently detected by their calls as they move quickly between feeding sites.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called kākāriki in Māori, the yellow-crowned parakeet is one of New Zealand’s small forest parrots distinguished by its golden crown. Unlike the closely related red-crowned parakeet, it persists on the New Zealand mainland where predator control helps local populations. It nests in tree cavities and can occur from lowland forests to subalpine scrub. Its rapid, chattering calls often reveal flocks moving through the canopy.
Yellow-crowned parakeet near Lake Matheson, New Zealand
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, direct flight
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small flocks outside the breeding season, sometimes joining mixed-species foraging groups. Breeds in spring–summer, nesting in tree cavities or crevices and lining them with plant material. Pairs form strong bonds and both adults attend the nest, with the female incubating and the male provisioning.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A lively series of high-pitched chattering notes and clear piping whistles. In flight it gives sharp contact calls, while feeding birds exchange softer trills.
