A splash of tropical color is capturing attention in north Belfast! Ring-necked parakeets, known for their bright green feathers and rosy-red beaks, have set up residence at Waterworks Park, attracting bird lovers and photographers alike.
These colorful parrots, originally from the Himalayas and parts of Africa and the Indian subcontinent, have become a familiar sight in the UK, particularly in London and the southeast. Now, about 15 of these vibrant birds have made Waterworks Park their home.
Recognized as the UK’s only naturalized parrot species by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), the ring-necked parakeets are here to stay!
A Thriving Flock
Birding expert Dot Blakely from Belfast Metropolitan College takes her students to study these fascinating birds. She believes they likely traveled north from London and the Republic of Ireland, possibly attracted by warmer temperatures from climate change.
“The parakeets are adapting really well,” says Blakely. The local flock of 13 to 15 birds is doing great, feasting on natural food sources like berries and handouts from friendly locals. “You might even see them hanging out by windows, hoping for a snack!”
Joy for Wildlife Enthusiasts
Their playful spirit and bright colors have made the parakeets a hit with wildlife photographers. Sharon Gregg, who picked up photography during her recovery from a rare illness, finds joy in spotting these cheeky birds.
“At first, people thought I was kidding when I searched for them, but they’re such characters—fun and lively!” she shares.
Another birdwatching fan, Michael Latham from Bangor, has been visiting Waterworks Park frequently. “There are definitely more of them now,” he says, noting reports of possible breeding, although only one male parakeet has been spotted.
The Legends Behind Their Arrival
How did these parakeets end up in the UK? There are plenty of urban myths! Some say rock star Jimi Hendrix released them in the 1960s, while others attribute their escape to a party for the film The African Queen in 1951.
However, a study in the Journal of Zoology suggests that the parakeets’ spread is likely due to multiple introductions over the years—both intentional and accidental.
Professor Emily Shepherd, an ornithologist, points out that parakeets thrive in urban environments. “They do well in parks and suburbs, especially where people leave out food. They’re tough birds that can compete with even the boldest native species.”
Are They a Problem?
Despite their charm, not everyone is thrilled about the arrival of parakeets. As a non-native species, they can be classified as invasive.
Conor McKinney, chair of Wild Belfast, warns that while they may brighten the scenery, they pose risks to local birds and agriculture. “They can outcompete native species for nesting sites and may even displace bats from their roosts,” he explains.
McKinney is urging Belfast City Council and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency to take action to control their population and protect native wildlife.
In response, the council is consulting with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) to determine the best course of action.
The arrival of these tropical parakeets is indeed a colorful addition to Belfast’s biodiversity, but it also raises important questions about managing non-native species. Whether you’re a birdwatching enthusiast or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, Waterworks Park is a wonderful place to observe these lively newcomers!
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