Ring-necked parakeet

The bright green ring-necked parakeet is an escapee and our only naturalised parrot; its success is likely due to warmer winters.

Species information

Statistics

Length: 40cm
Wingspan: 45cm
Weight: 110-130g
Average lifespan: 15-30 years

Conservation status

Introduced, non-native species.

When to see

January to December

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, 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 and even nest 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

Previously largely restricted to southeast England, particularly around south and west London where they are still very common. Parakeets are now found in distinct breeding colonies across Britain, as far north as Scotland. They are often found in urban parks.