Ring-necked Parakeet (Psittacula krameri – ring-necked parakeet)

The ring-necked parakeet is a bird many people notice before they know what it is and they find it very qute and it is. Loud calls, bright green color, and groups flying over cities, trees, forests or farms make it very visible. I have seen ring-necked parakeets around my home and clients homes, gardens, orchards, cafés with outdoor seating, small food businesses but also near greenhouses, farms and parks. People enjoy seeing them. The problem starts when numbers increase and damage becomes regular.

This species adapts very well to human environments. When a small group settles, it can increase fast because there are few natural enemies. In some areas, it is no longer just wildlife but a real pest that needs control.

Identification

The ring-necked parakeet (Psittacula krameri) is a medium-sized parrot.

Key features:

• Very Bright green body

• Long tail

• Red beak

• Adult males have a thin black and pink ring around the neck

• Females and young birds usually lack a clear neck ring

They are easy to recognize because they are noisy and rarely stay hidden. Groups often sit on trees, roofs, light poles, or balconies.

Other animals often found in the same environments include pigeons, starlings, crows, rats, and squirrels.

Biology & Ecology

Ring-necked parakeets are social birds, so they usually stay in big groups and communicate constantly with loud calls. They are active during the day and rest at night in communal roosts, often in trees or tall structures.

Their diet is very flexible:

• Fruits and seeds

• Grains and crops

• Nuts

• Buds and flowers

• Food scraps in urban areas

They nest in tree holes, but in cities they also use:

• Gaps in buildings or balconies.

• Roof cavities

• Old ventilation openings

This flexibility is the main reason they spread so easily.

Breeding usually happens once per year. Each pair can raise several chicks, and survival rates are high in urban areas due to lack of predators.

Global Distribution

Originally, the ring-necked parakeet comes from parts of Africa and South Asia. Today, it is established in many parts of the world.

• Europe: Large populations in the UK, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, and Greece

• United States: Established populations in Florida, Texas, and California

• Australia: Smaller populations, closely monitored

• Asia: Native in many regions and common around farms and cities

Most populations outside their native range started from escaped or released pet birds.

Risks / Damage

Ring-necked parakeets do not cause disease problems for humans, but they create other serious issues.

Most of the damage is economic but they can also cause irritation :

• Crop damage in orchards and small farms

• Loss of fruit before harvest

• Damage to garden plants and trees

• Noise pollution, especially early in the morning

• Nesting damage in buildings and roofs

• Competition with native birds for nesting sites

In urban areas, droppings around roosting sites are also a hygiene problem for cafés, shops, and public spaces.

Signs of Infestation

Typical signs of ring-necked parakeet activity include:

• Loud, repeated calls during the day

• Groups flying the same routes daily

• Fruit damage high in trees

• Empty or damaged fruit still hanging

• Birds nesting in roof gaps or tree holes

• Droppings under trees or buildings used for roosting

If these signs appear daily and numbers keep increasing, the situation usually gets worse over time.

Control & Prevention Methods

Control focuses on making areas less attractive and reducing access to food and nesting.

Habitat Management

• Remove easy food sources where possible

• Protect fruit trees with nets

• Harvest fruit early when practical

• Close roof gaps and building openings

Noise and Visual Deterrents

Some short-term methods include:

• Reflective objects

• Sound deterrents

• Moving scare devices

These work best when changed often. Birds quickly get used to static deterrents.

Exclusion

• Netting on trees and crops

• Physical barriers on buildings

• Blocking nesting cavities outside breeding season

This is one of the most effective non-lethal approaches.

Advanced / Professional Approaches

Professional help is often needed when there are many birds or when damage does not stop.

A professional approach can include:

• Tracking bird numbers

• Making sure all actions are legal

• Using exclusion methods together

• Planning solutions that work long term

In many countries, ring-necked parakeets are protected or regulated, so incorrect actions can lead to legal problems.

Professional intervention is recommended when:

• Crop or business losses are constant

• Birds nest inside buildings

• Noise affects customers or residents

• DIY methods fail repeatedly

Cultural or Historical Context

Ring-necked parakeets have been kept as pets for centuries. Their spread outside native areas is closely linked to the pet trade. Over time, the birds adapted so well that they became permanent residents in many cities around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are ring-necked parakeets protected by law?
In many countries, yes. Laws vary widely, so always check local regulations before acting.

Do ring-necked parakeets damage crops?
Yes. They can cause serious damage to fruit trees, vineyards, and small farms.

Why are they so noisy?
They are social birds and communicate constantly, especially when flying or feeding.

Can they nest in buildings?
Yes. They often use roof gaps, cavities, and ventilation openings.

Do scare devices really work?
They work short-term. Birds adapt quickly if devices do not change.

When should professional pest control be involved?
When damage is ongoing, numbers increase, or legal restrictions apply.