Page:The Kea, a New Zealand problem (1909).pdf/87



The Keas have several methods of attacking sheep, and it depends largely upon the kind of ground as to which one is used in a particular instance.

They may attack in large numbers up to one hundred and twenty, or merely in ones and twos. Usually one or two old birds, known as “sheep-killers,” do the killing, and the others share the spoil.

It is quite a mistake to suppose that all Keas kill or even attack sheep. Just as we have comparatively harmless tigers, who will not attack man except under provocation, and also “man-eaters,” who seem to take a special delight in killing men; so, among the Keas, many of them never attack sheep, while others, usually old birds, seem to enjoy nothing better.

Again, the Keas do not, as many people suppose, choose the lambs or weaklings, but in most cases the choicest of the flocks is killed.

The usual mode of attack seems to be as follows. The bird settles on the ground near its quarry, and, after hopping about here and there for some time, leaps on to its prey, usually on the rump.

If it cannot obtain a firm grip with its claws, the movement of the sheep may cause it to fall, but the Kea seems rather to enjoy the sensation, and so tries again until it has securely perched itself on the sheep’s back.

Then the murderer begins cruelly to pull out the wool with its powerful beak, until it gets down to the flesh.