The Ring-necked Parakeet Psittacula krameri in Wales: A preliminary review of records

Facey, Richard; Vafidis, Jim

Abstract

The Ring-necked Parakeet is a widespread and invasive species with feral populations across the world. The feral population in Britain is expanding its distribution, with increasing numbers of sightings in Wales. There were 511 recorded sightings of the species in Wales between 1974 and 2017 collated by the National Biodiversity Network (NBN). The distribution of sightings is correlated with urban areas especially in the South East and North East of Wales. While there is no evidence of contemporary breeding, these findings strongly suggest population establishment, via multiple releases. We examined Welsh Bird Reports spanning 1995-2018 to explore flock size; although the maximum flock size was 6, 83% of records related to single birds. The current distribution of historical and more contemporary records does not indicate current impacts on native cavity nesting bird species, although this does not exclude localised impacts on these or other cavity users. However, the current distribution may point to issues ahead for fruit growers in Wales, as well as noise disturbance. We recommend increased vigilance and more detailed recording of all sightings of this species in Wales.

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Aug 6, 2020
• Online Publication Date: Oct 5, 2020
• Publication Date: Oct 5, 2020
• Deposit Date: Jun 17, 2021
• Journal: Birds in Wales
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 17
• Issue: 1
• Pages: 26-35
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/6814146