No visit to Arthur's Pass is complete without interacting with the playful Kea. Kea are the most intelligent parrot in the world, and are only found in the skies of the South Island's alpine regions. They are now classified as a threatened species.
Many other species of bird inhabit the local forests. Rifleman, Tomtits, Silver Eyes, Bellbird, Bush Robins are quite common, whilst the master of the forest, the Great Spotted Kiwi, can be heard calling on chilly winter nights.
Less common birds such as New Zealand Falcons, Rock Wrens, Yellowheads and Parakeets inhabit the more remote valleys just away from the Village.
The large braided river systems in Arthur's Pass National Park are the home to Wrybills, Dotterels, Paradise & Blue Duck, and a host of more common aquatic birds.
The best time to visit to bird watch is from the end of winter (November) through to May.
