Indian Ringneck Parrot.

Indian Ringneck Parrot (Psittacula krameri)

Scientific classification.

Kingdom:                  Animalia

Phylum:                     Chordata

Class:                         Aves

Order:                        Psittaciformes

Superfamily:              Psittacoidea

Family:                       Psittaculidae

Subfamily:                 Psittaculinae

Tribe:                          Psittaculini

Genus:                       Psittacula

Species:                     P. krameri

Binomial name:        Psittacula krameri (Scopoli, 1769)

The Rose-ringed parakeet, known as the Indian Ringneck parrot within the Anglosphere, is a medium-sized parrot indigenous to Asia. Four subspecies are recognized, two of which are found predominately in central and west Africa. Large naturalized feral populations also exist throughout South Africa, East Asia, the Middle-East, Europe, and the United States.

The Indian Ringneck has been kept in captivity for over a millennium and today is one of the most popular birds in the pet trade. Dozens of color mutations have become available and the species is often among the most affordable larger parrot available.

Aviary:
Indian Ringneck parrots are not suitable for mixed species aviaries and are best housed as single pairs. Small colonies can be housed together in very large aviaries (1,000 square feet and upwards), but the best breeding results are rarely achieved in this setup.

Indian Ringnecks must be provided with an adequate amount of flying space to ensure they receive sufficient exercise. Birds that do not have room to fly may suffer from stress or obesity. At least three meters of uninterrupted flying space is essential. Five meters or more is recommended.

Branches from non-toxic trees should be provided as natural perches. The birds will also enjoy chewing on bark, leaves, and seeds for entertainment and beak exercise.

Protection from wind, rain and temperature extremes must be provided.

Indian Ringneck parrots have been known to hybridize with other Asiatic parrot species – particularly the Moustached parakeet and Alexandrine parakeet. To avoid producing hybrid birds that damage the captive gene pool of each distinct species, these birds should not be housed together. Hybrids between Blossom-headed, Slaty-headed, and Plum-headed parakeets have also been reported.

Diet and Feeding:
Seed forms the basis of the Indian Ringneck’s diet. A parrot seed mix with a good amount of sunflower seed should be offered. A seed-based diet is only sufficient only combined with a variety of fruits and vegetables.

Pellets can be used a more nutritious alternative to seed, but many birds are unwilling to consume them.

Indian Ringnecks prefer sweet juicy fruits such as apple and pear; however, it’s important that more nutritious green foods are included in their diet. Broccoli, kale, silverbeet (chard) and bok choi are especially nutritious – as are corn, cucumber, peppers, and berries.

Some birds will consume live insects during the breeding season. Mealworms are generally the most available live food available and will be consumed by their larvae, pupae or beetle form. Insects are a good source of protein for young birds but are not required to achieve good breeding results.

Breeding:
Indian Ringnecks are usually reliable breeders and make excellent parents. They will typically produce one clutch per year, however, a second clutch is not unheard of.

Nest box:
Indian Ringnecks will accept a wide range of different nesting boxes or logs. A commercial nesting box designed for medium-sized parrots – either rectangular or Z-shaped – is ideal. An inch-thick layer of shaved pine or sawdust should be placed in the bottom of the nest.

Sexing:
Only male birds possess the dark colored ring around their neck.

 Health:

Indian Ringneck parrots are a hardy and resilient species, but the following preventative health measures should still be taken.

A strict worming and parasite control regime. Maintain excellent hygiene by routines cleaning the aviary of discarded food and bird droppings. Clean water dishes daily. Remove fresh food before they begin to rot or ferment. Well looked after Indian Ringneck parrots will live for 20-30 years.