
Rose-ringed Parakeet (also known as the Ring-necked Parakeet)
Kingdom Animalia, Phylum Chordata, Class Aves, Order Psittaciformes, Family Psittaculidae, Genus Psittacula, Species Psittacula krameri
Family: Psittaculidae (Old World Parrots)
- Shape
- Symmetrical vane with a smoothly rounded tip and an elongated, tapering outline
- Size
- Approximately 4 to 5 inches long, consistent with a medium body or covert feather for this species
- Rarity
- Very Common in its introduced urban range, such as the parks of Madrid where flocks number in the thousands
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Description
A vibrant green parrot with a distinctive long tail, slender body, hooked red bill, and a narrow pink and black neck ring in adult males. Known for its loud, screeching calls and agile, direct flight across urban canopies.
Colour & Pattern
Striking gradient transitioning from vivid turquoise-blue at the tip through emerald green to yellowish-green and white near the base, driven by structural coloration and psittacine pigments
Barb Structure
Pennaceous vane in the upper portion transitioning to slightly plumulaceous barbs near the base, with intact barbs and micro-structure barbicels
Texture & Surface
Smooth, silky texture with a glossy sheen on the dorsal surface and a matte appearance on the ventral side
Key Features
Vibrant turquoise-to-green gradient coloration, slender elongated contour shape, and soft silky texture characteristic of parrot plumage
Habitat
Urban parks, gardens, open woodlands, agricultural areas, and suburban environments where large feral or introduced populations thrive
Geographic Range
Native to tropical regions of Africa and South Asia, but has established highly successful feral breeding populations in major European cities including Madrid, Spain
Ecological Role
Acts as an urban seed disperser and generalist herbivore; large flocks can sometimes compete with native cavity-nesting birds for nesting sites
Similar Species
Monk Parakeet (Myiopsyra monachus), which features greyish breasts and distinct barred markings rather than a smooth turquoise-green gradient
Interesting Facts
Rose-ringed parakeets have established massive, noisy roosts in many European cities, with Madrid hosting one of the largest urban populations outside their native range
Condition Notes
Excellent condition with intact barbs, clean shaft, and no visible signs of wear, fading, or parasitic damage
Notes
Madrid, Spain in a city park