Kramer’s Parakeet (Psittacula krameri)
The Kramer’s Parakeet is one of the most widespread members of the true parakeet subfamily. Its plumage is predominantly green; males feature a narrow pink-red ring around the neck, surrounding a black throat patch, while females lack this ring. The body is slender, with a very long tail—up to half of the total length—and the two central tail feathers have a bluish tint. The beak is bright red, with a darker tip and lower mandible. The call is loud, high-pitched, and piercing.
Habitat and Distribution
Native to South Asia (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, southern Myanmar) and parts of Africa south of the Sahara (from Mali to Ethiopia and Somalia). This species adapts well to open landscapes with tall trees, and is often found in savannahs, parks, gardens, and urban areas. In Asia, it occurs up to ~1600 m, and in Africa up to ~2000 m above sea level.
Appearance and Sexual Dimorphism
Length: 40–42 cm, wing length around 16 cm, weight 115–140 g. Males show a distinct pink-black neck ring, whereas females have generally duller plumage, slightly shorter tails, and often a bluish tinge on the back feathers. Legs are gray with a pinkish tint and zygodactyl (two toes forward, two backward).
Behavior and Lifestyle
They form groups or large flocks, are highly active and agile. Most of the time is spent in trees, descending to the ground mainly to feed. Daily routine includes morning and evening flights to feeding sites, with resting in the canopy during midday. Flight is fast with frequent wingbeats.
Population and Conservation Status
Kramer’s Parakeet is among the most numerous and adaptable Old World parrot species. Its ability to thrive in human-modified landscapes has earned it a conservation status of “Least Concern.” Stable feral populations exist in European cities, the USA, the Middle East, and other regions.
Subspecies
Four subspecies are recognized: P. k. krameri and P. k. parvirostris (Africa), P. k. borealis and P. k. manillensis (Asia). They differ in plumage details, tail length, and body size.
Habitat of the Ring-necked Parakeet
