Kea stapled to road sign in Arthur’s Pass
Two juvenile Kea have been found stapled to a road sign near Arthur’s Pass National Park.
Department Of Conservation ranger Wayne Costello says he is unsure how the native parrots died. They are being sent to Massey University for an autopsy to determine the cause.
Mr Costello finds it unbelievable that someone would think this behaviour is acceptable. He says Kea are the real attraction in Arthur’s Pass and are the most photographed bird in the country.
The culprit could face a charge under the Wildlife Act which carries a maximum fine of $100,000 or a six month jail sentence.
Police and DOC staff are investigating.