Indian Ringneck Parrot

Breeding

Unlike smaller parrots ringnecks tend to breed seasonally and only produce a single clutch. Birds begin to form pairs in the winter months during which they will begin selecting and defending nest sites. Like most parrots they naturally nest in tree hollows so in captivity nest boxes are provided. The parent’s nest preferences are thought to be influenced by the environment in which it was raised so a range of next boxes are provided for the birds to select from. Once a pair has selected a nest box they are likely to use the same in following seasons.

Ringneck clutches contain 4-6 eggs which hatch after a 21-26 day incubation. The young fledge after a further 7-8 weeks and become fully independent at 12 weeks of age. Ringnecks are considered to be attentive parents and have lower rates of infanticide compared to other species of parrots kept as pets.

Typical Behaviour

Like most parrots, ringnecks are intelligent and require stimulation to avoid becoming bored and developing self-destructive behaviours. Ringnecks like to chew to maintain beak health so one simple method is to provide a range of barked branches for them to shred. Plants native to the bird’s home range are used where possible, however many other species are suitable including many trees native to New Zealand and Australia.

Ringnecks are highly visual animals using their colour vision to spot fruits and seeds at a distance. To encourage natural foraging behaviours, fruit and vegetables are ‘hidden’ around the enclosure for the birds to find. Artificial methods of foraging enrichment, such as the use of pine cones, are also used to keep birds entertained. 

Fun Facts

• Blue variants of the Indian Ringneck are also kept as pets. This is caused by a genetic mutation that replaces the green and pink pigments with a light blue one. 
• Ringnecks have a long history as pets. Ancient Greeks and Romans would keep them as both pets and symbols of status.