16-3-2025 COLOMBO, SRI LANKA - ROSE RINGED PARAKEET (Psittacula krameri)

The rose-ringed parakeet, also known as the ringneck parrot or Kramer parrot, is a medium-sized parrot with a striking appearance. Males are adorned with a pink and black neck ring, while females and young birds display a more subdued coloration with pale to dark grey neck rings or none at all. In the wild, these birds boast a vibrant green plumage, complemented by a red beak and a blue tail. Captive breeding has led to a kaleidoscope of color mutations, including turquoise, cinnamon, olive, white, blue, violet, grey, and yellow. The species measures approximately 40 cm in length, with the tail feathers making up a significant portion of this measurement.

Adult males can be identified by their distinctive neck rings. Both sexes exhibit a green coloration in their natural habitat, with a red beak and blue tail feathers. The average wing length ranges from 15 to 17.5 cm. When observing these parakeets, listen for their unmistakable squawking call, which is quite prominent in the wild.

The rose-ringed parakeet thrives in disturbed habitats and has shown remarkable adaptability to urban and deforested areas. It is one of the few parrot species that have successfully adapted to such environments.

Native to Africa and the Indian Subcontinent, the rose-ringed parakeet has established feral populations in various parts of the world, including Northern and Western Europe. It is known for breeding further north than any other parrot species.