The
bright green ring-necked parakeet is an escapee and our only
naturalised parrot; its success is likely due to warmer winters. It can
be seen in the South East.
About
A
medium-sized, green parakeet, the ring-necked parakeet is the UK's only
naturalised parrot and the most northerly breeding parrot in the world.
ring-necked parakeets are originally from Africa and southern Asia and
were kept as pets in the UK. They escaped into the wild, however, and
have become naturalised in the south-east especially, aided by warmer
winters. They nest in holes in trees in gardens and parkland, and are
often found in noisy, roosting flocks of hundreds of birds. They eat
nuts, seeds, berries and fruits.How to identify
The
ring-necked parakeet is an unmistakable green parrot, although other
species of parrot do escape sometimes. It has a very long, narrow tail
and a bright red bill. Males have a black throat and a thin black and
pink collar.Distribution
Found
in South East England, particularly around south and west London.
Occasionally found elsewhere, usually as an escapee from captivity.Did you know?
Like other parrots,
ring-necked parakeets are great mimics. They are able to copy human
speech and can be taught to say words and phrases.
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