THE BIRDS OF SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE
RING-NECKED PARAKEET – Psittacula krameri
As with all reports of rare and scarce birds they are subject to ratification by the respective rarities committees
Rose-ringed Parakeet, also known as the Ring-necked Parakeet is a gregarious tropical parakeet species that is popular as a pet. Its scientific name commemorates the Austrian naturalist Wilhelm Heinrich Kramer. This non-migrating species is one of few parrot species that have successfully adapted to living in 'disturbed habitats', and in that way withstood the onslaught of urbanisation and deforestation. In the wild this is a noisy species with an unmistakable squawking call. Their stronghold in the UK is in the south east where up to three thousand birds regularly roost at Esher Rugby Club in W. London.
There have been five Ring-necked Parakeets reported from S. Gloucestershire, they are;
1996: (2)
A female was present at Fishpool Hill, Brentry on September 28th - 30th; One, probably a female was reported on October 10th near Westerleigh.
2004: (1)
An individual was reported from Almondsbury between April and October. The bird was in a garden in Almondsbury next to the A38 and was feeding on berries; (Cotoneaster, Holly and Ivy) and had attached itself to a group of Woodpigeons feeding with them. It was observed spasmodically over a period of several months.
2005: (1)
One was reported in mid February at Longwell Green, no age, sex or date was given.
2008: (1)
One was seen at New Passage at around 10:15 and remarkably the same or another was reported from Oldbury Power Station on April 16th;