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Ring-necked Parakeet (Rose-ringed Parakeet)
Contour feather, likely from the wing covert or mantle area

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