These kākāriki were once found in many parts of the South Island. Today they are nationally endangered, with a total population of 200-400 birds.
Orange-fronted kākāriki have been bred in captivity and released on several pest-free islands.
Nesting high in beech trees, they feed mainly on seeds. When the beech trees 'mast', producing plenty of seeds, these kākāriki thrive. Unfortunately, rats and stoats also benefit, eating the seeds and the kākāriki.
