
Ring-necked Parakeet (Rose-ringed Parakeet)
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Psittaciformes, Family: Psittaculidae, Genus: Psittacula, Species: P. krameri
Family: Psittaculidae (Old World Parakeets)
- Shape
- Symmetrical to slightly asymmetrical vane with a rounded tip and a gentle curve along the length
- Size
- Approximately 3 to 4 inches long, consistent with a medium-sized body or wing covert feather from a medium parrot species
- Rarity
- Very Common in its introduced urban range, such as London, where populations have exploded significantly
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Description
The Ring-necked Parakeet is a medium-sized, long-tailed parrot characterized by its bright lime-green plumage, slender silhouette, and rapid, direct flight. Males often feature a distinctive black and rose-colored neck ring. They are highly vocal and gregarious birds frequently seen in large, noisy flocks.
Colour & Pattern
Vibrant, structural green on the exposed vane with a bluish tinge near the edge, contrasting sharply with the pale grey-white concealed portion of the inner web; dark rachis
Barb Structure
Tightly interlocked pennaceous structure on the upper exposed vane grading into a semiplume-like fluffy base
Texture & Surface
Smooth, glossy, and silky with a firm, rigid vane structure on the exposed green portion and softer downy barbs at the base
Key Features
Brilliant lime-green structural coloration on the exposed pennaceous vane sharply contrasting with a grey concealed inner web and a pale sturdy rachis
Habitat
Woodlands, cultivated lands, parks, and urban areas with mature trees providing nesting cavities
Geographic Range
Native to tropical Africa and South Asia, but has established highly successful feral populations globally, including urban parks in London, UK
Ecological Role
Frugivore and seed disperser; competes with native cavity-nesting birds for tree hollows in introduced ranges
Similar Species
Alexandrine Parakeet (Psittacula eupatria), which is larger with a distinctive maroon patch on the wing coverts
Interesting Facts
Ring-necked Parakeets are among the most successful invasive parrot species in the world, with large thriving populations in major European cities like London, often rumored to have originated from escaped pets or film set releases
Condition Notes
Good condition, fresh appearance with minimal wear at the tip and intact barbs
Notes
London Oakwood