Curious Kea (large)

Curious Kea – Hand-Carved Recycled Beech Sculpture

Bold, intelligent, and endlessly inquisitive, the Curious Kea sculpture captures the essence of New Zealand’s mischievous alpine parrot in a sleek, minimalist form. Carved from a recycled beech railway sleeper, this one-of-a-kind piece blends smooth, flowing lines with rustic detailing, honoring both the bird’s wild nature and the timber’s rich history.

At large scale, this sculpture makes a striking statement—its abstract, elegant form conveying the Kea’s signature curiosity and energy. The deep grain and weathered character of the reclaimed beech tell their own story, enhanced by a Danish oil finish that brings out the wood’s natural warmth and texture.

Features:

• Hand-carved from a reclaimed beech railway sleeper, giving new life to historic timber
• Minimalist, abstract design capturing the Kea’s bold spirit
• One-off, large-scale sculpture with rustic detailing for unique character
• Finished in Danish oil to enhance the wood’s depth and durability
• Unique grain, patina, and markings, ensuring no two sculptures are alike
• Thoughtfully crafted in New Zealand

A rare and commanding piece, the Curious Kea sculpture is a tribute to one of New Zealand’s most iconic birds—crafted with care at Bearwood Workshop.

Dimensions: Width 450mm  Height 500mm Depth 150mm
Care: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth; reapply Danish oil occasionally to preserve the finish.

The Kea

Kea birds, scientifically known as Nestor notabilis, are unique and intelligent parrots native to the stunning landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island. Renowned for their playful and mischievous nature, Kea birds have captured the hearts of bird enthusiasts and nature lovers worldwide.

One of the most striking features of Kea birds is their vibrant plumage. Their feathers exhibit a stunning combination of green, olive-brown, and brilliant orange-red underwings, making them a sight to behold in their natural habitat. Kea birds are medium-sized parrots, measuring around 48 centimeters (19 inches) in length, and they have a wingspan of approximately 1 meter (3.3 feet).

What truly sets Kea birds apart is their extraordinary intelligence. They have been recognized as one of the most intelligent bird species, capable of solving puzzles, demonstrating problem-solving skills, and displaying a remarkable ability to learn and adapt. Kea birds are highly curious and known for their knack for exploring objects and their environment, often using their sharp beaks to investigate and manipulate various items.

Living in the alpine regions of New Zealand, Kea birds have adapted to a unique diet. While they primarily feed on plant matter, including leaves, berries, and roots, they are also known to scavenge for insects, grubs, and even small animals. Their beaks are particularly well-suited for tearing into tough vegetation and extracting food from crevices.

Kea birds are highly social creatures and are often seen in small groups or flocks. They communicate through a range of vocalizations, including calls, screams, and whistles. Observing their interactions and playful behavior is a joy for birdwatchers and researchers alike.

Conservation

However, Kea birds face several challenges in their conservation. Their population has been significantly affected by human activities, such as habitat destruction and hunting. Efforts are underway to protect and preserve these magnificent birds, including the establishment of conservation areas and initiatives aimed at raising public awareness about the importance of their survival.