There is no mistaking the "kee-ah" squawk of the rose-ringed parakeet, Psittacula krameri, or Mr. NoisyPants, as I like to call him. Known for their tendency to be garroulous, it is fitting that a group of parakeets is known as a "chat." A parakeet is not different from a parrot - it is the term given to any small to medium-sized parrot with a long tail. And get a look at that tail: the neon green body eases into a wash of aqua blue at the tail that is simply eye-catching. Add to that a brilliant red bill, black mustache, and a rose-colored collar, and you have one smart looking bird. The female is similar, but the collar is often paler or absent. Like other parrots, Psittacula krameri, is highly social. They tend to forage together, feeding on fruits, nuts, nectar, seeds, and veggies, and there is concern about them becoming agricultural pests. An additional concern is that they will out-compete frigate birds (Iwa), shearwaters, and petrels for nesting and roosting sites. Psittacula krameri will lay two to six eggs in a tree cavity or crevice, and the female will sit on the nest for just over three weeks before the babies hatch. They fledge after two months. An interesting characteristic of parrots is the arrangement of their digits: two going forward and two facing back. This is known as zygodactyly, as is seen in birds such as woodpeckers and some owls, as well as chameleons.
2 Comments
Jane
6/19/2013 10:49:28 am
Spectacular! I love Mr. NoisyPants color palette! I wish I had him in my backyard.
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Barb
6/19/2013 07:59:07 pm
Great photos! That's one amazing little camera.
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