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Ring-Necked Parakeet (Rose-ringed Parakeet)

Psittacula krameri

SmileSmile

Distribution Britain 63 (+1475%) Ireland 0
Numbers breeding: Britain 1,550 Ireland 0
European status: 3,350 (90% in Britain and Ireland =1)
British population trend: gradual increases and expansion
How likely are you to record it? 15 squares (0.3%) Ranked 140=

These exotic birds have been invading Britain for 30 years following escapes from aviaries. Their breeding strongholds in West London and Ramsgate in Kent, with smaller numbers in several other areas — including Wales and Scotland. Careful counts at the known roosting sites indicate that the British population is just over 1,500 compared with about 1,000 in 1986. They are well able to withstand cold weather in the winter provided they can find enough food — and lots of people love to feed their exotic visitors. These birds are seldom recorded breeding but lack of nest sites does not seem to be a problem. Outlook as bright as their plumage — but is this a good thing?

Pithon, J.A. & Dytham, C. 1999 Bird Study: 46, 112-116.
Ogilvie, M.A. & RBBP 1999 British Birds: 92, 176-182 & 472-476.

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From The State of the Nations Birds
Copyright © 2000 by Chris Mead


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