INDIAN PARAKEET (ALEXANDRINE PARAKEET)
Phylum – Chordata
Class – Aves
Orde –: Psittaciformes
Family – Psittacidae
Genus – Psittacula
Species – Psittacula eupatria
The Alexandrine Parakeet’s natural habitat spans South Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Southern China. This species has also been introduced to several regions, such as the Middle East and some European countries.
Lifespan in the wild is approximately 20-30 years, in captivity 40-50 years with proper care. Weight is between 180-250 grams. Body length: 56-62 cm (including the long tail, which makes up about half the length), wingspan: 18-22 cm.
Alexandrine Parakeets are social birds, often living in flocks. During the breeding season (mainly in winter), they form pairs. The female lays 2 to 4 eggs in tree hollows. The incubation period lasts approximately 24-28 days. Young birds fledge from the nest 6-7 weeks after hatching.
Alexandrine Parakeets are herbivores, feeding on fruits, berries, seeds, flowers, and occasionally young shoots. They are known for their fondness for mangoes and pomegranates.
This species has been known since ancient times, named after Alexander the Great, who brought these parrots to Europe after his campaigns in India. Alexandrine Parakeets have a long history as pets in South Asia and the Middle East. They symbolize longevity, prosperity, and fidelity. In some cultures, they were used to convey messages due to their ability to mimic human speech.
The Alexandrine Parakeet is classified as “Near Threatened” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), primarily due to habitat loss and illegal capture for the exotic pet trade.
Interesting facts:
- Origin of the Name: this parrot is named after Alexander the Great, who brought these birds to Europe after his campaigns in India.
- Long Lifespan: can live up to 50 years in captivity with proper care, making them some of the longest-living parrots.
- Speech Mimicry: Alexandrine Parakeets are known for their ability to mimic human speech and other sounds, sometimes surpassing their close relatives, the Rose-ringed Parakeets.
- Varied Diet: while primarily feeding on fruits and seeds, these birds are also known to enjoy flowers, young shoots, and nuts.
- Distinct “Collar”: adult males have a distinctive feature — a black “collar” around their neck, which becomes visible after their second year of life.
