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Alexandrine Parakeet

Psittacula eupatria
Bird

Step into the world of our Alexandrine parakeets and unlock the wonders of these extraordinary creatures

A bright green Alexandrine parakeet perching on a branch

The Alexandrine parakeet is a medium-sized parrot that has feral populations around the world. It is one of the largest parakeet species, measuring 56 to 62 cm from head to tail and weighing 200 to 300 g.

Adults of this species are sexually dimorphic. Males have a black stripe across their lower cheeks and a pink band on their nape, while females lack these features. The young resemble adult females but have shorter tails. They can cause damage to fruits and grain crops, living in small flocks but forming larger groups in areas with abundant food or communal roosts.

They have a variety of calls, including a ringing trrrieuw, loud kree-aar or keeak, deep klak-klak-klak-klak and resonant gr-aak. Their voices become harsher when alarmed, and they shriek loudly when mobbing predators.

Quick facts

Distribution:

Various species spread throughout India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, South East Asia and nearby islands

Habitat:

Forests, woodlands, agricultural lands, and mangrove forests at elevations of up to 900m

Conservation Status:

Near Threatened

Fun fact

The Alexandrine parakeet is named after Alexander the Great!

Frequently asked questions

Alexandrine parakeets eat a variety of wild and cultivated seeds, buds, fruits, and nuts. Their diverse diet helps them obtain essential nutrients for their vibrant plumage and active lifestyle.

Alexandrine parakeets typically breed from November to April in their native habitat. They naturally nest in tree hollows but will sometimes use cracks in buildings. Females lay 2 to 4 white, blunt oval-shaped eggs, which are incubated for about 24 days. The chicks fledge at about 7 weeks and remain dependent on their parents until they are 3 to 4 months old.

Alexandrine parakeets can live for about 30 years in ideal circumstances.

Alexandrine parakeets face threats from larger predator birds, large lizards, and mammals. However, as a group, they will mob and attack predators in defense of their flock, showcasing their strong social behavior and communal defense strategies.

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