crazy devil bird

Since arriving to New Zealand, we have become strangely interested in birds. It's not uncommon for us to swerve, pull over (slash stop Connie in the middle of the road) or follow various species. We are slightly more interested in the 'flightless heavyweights' (Kiwis, etc.) but have strong affections towards smaller birds, as well (such as the common Fantail, which apparently lands on an outstretched hand. Megan is often found walking around with one arm stretched out...).

However, today I was attacked by a bird. Fully attacked. Or, more like my foccacia sandwich was attacked. The Keas, the only alpine species of parrots, are gorgeous. So, naturally, I got really excited when the first Kea that I had ever seen landed right next to me! What luck! I was already thinking of what I would tell my super-cool-bird-obsessed-traveling-team! But then... things went steadily down hill from there... The incredibly gorgeous parrot turned incredibly aggressive and it started getting ugly. I took off and THREW both of my Vans at it, screaming. My mom was simulatenously trying to save the hummus while brandishing her Leatherman at it, also screaming at the top of her lungs.

I don't think I've ever been so scared of a bird before. I can't really describe it properly. I was SCARED. The look in its eyes was so determined and evil, I didn't know what to do. I literally stuffed my whole sandwich in my face, grabbed everything I could and RAN to our car.

I checked, and Keas are found nowhere on the North Island, which is where I am headed. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kea)

So it's all good.