Alexandrine Parakeet (Psittacula eupatria)

The Alexandrine Parakeet (Psittacula eupatria) is one of the most magnificent and largest parakeets found in South Asia. Known for its striking green plumage, large red beak, and distinct maroon shoulder patches, this bird is a symbol of elegance and intelligence. It is widely distributed across the Indian subcontinent, including parts of the Sundarban ecosystem, where it thrives in forested and semi-urban habitats.

Taxonomy and Classification

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Aves
• Order: Psittaciformes
• Family: Psittaculidae
• Genus: Psittacula
• Species: Psittacula eupatria

The Alexandrine Parakeet is named after Alexander the Great, who is believed to have transported these birds to Europe and the Mediterranean region during his conquests.

Morphology and Physical Characteristics

• Size: One of the largest parakeets, measuring 58 cm (23 in) in length, including its long tail.
• Weight: Ranges from 200-250 grams.
• Male Plumage:
  • Vivid green body, with a slight bluish hue on the cheeks.
  • Maroon shoulder patches (wing markings), distinguishing it from other Psittacula species.
  • A large red beak with a yellowish tip.
  • Black and pink ring (neck collar) around the throat and back of the neck.
• Female Plumage:
  • Similar to males but lacks the black and pink collar.
• Juveniles:
  • Young birds resemble females and develop their distinctive collar after maturity (around 3 years old).

Habitat and Distribution

The Alexandrine Parakeet is widely found across India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Southeast Asia. It inhabits a variety of ecosystems, including:

• Tropical and subtropical forests
• Mangrove forests (including parts of the Sundarban)
• Deciduous and evergreen forests
• Urban parks, gardens, and plantations

Presence in Sundarban

The Sundarban, with its dense mangrove forests and coastal woodlands, provides a suitable habitat for the Alexandrine Parakeet, though they are not as abundant as in inland forests.

• Prefers slightly drier and elevated zones within the Sundarban.
• Often found near human settlements where they feed on fruit-bearing trees.
• Observers have reported sightings in buffer zones of the Sundarban Biosphere Reserve, particularly fringes of the Sundarban Tiger Reserve.

Despite their presence, mangrove habitat limitations and increasing urbanization have affected their population density in this region.

Diet and Feeding Behavior

• The Alexandrine Parakeet is an opportunistic feeder, consuming:
  • Fruits (guavas, mangoes, papayas, figs, and berries)
  • Seeds and nuts
  • Grains and cultivated crops
  • Flower nectar and buds
• They are often seen in small flocks, sometimes raiding crop fields, making them a concern for farmers.

Special Features and Behavior

• Highly Intelligent: Known for their problem-solving skills and ability to mimic human speech.
• Strong Flyers: Can cover long distances with powerful, rapid wingbeats.
• Social Birds: Found in pairs or flocks, displaying strong family bonds.
• Loud Calls: Emits high-pitched squawks and repetitive chattering sounds, often heard from a distance.
• Breeding Season: Occurs from November to April, where they nest in tree hollows or abandoned cavities.

Conservation Status

• Classified as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN Red List, but habitat destruction and illegal pet trade are significant threats.
• Protected under Indian Wildlife Protection Act (1972).
• Conservation efforts in areas like the Sundarban Biosphere Reserve play a crucial role in maintaining their population.

Conclusion

The Alexandrine Parakeet is a charismatic and intelligent bird that plays an essential role in forest ecosystems by dispersing seeds and pollinating flowers. Though not as commonly seen deep within the Sundarban mangroves, they are present in buffer zones and higher-elevation areas, where they thrive in mixed forests.

For birdwatching enthusiasts, a Sundarban luxury tour provides a fantastic opportunity to spot this species along with the diverse avifauna of the region.

Footnote

For more details on the Alexandrine Parakeet, visit its Wikipedia page.