Help spot rose-ringed parakeets
JOBURG - Researchers from the University of the Witwatersrand are launching the rose-ringed parakeet project.
The launch will firstly locate parakeet roosting and breeding sites, and secondly, investigate the size and distribution range of the population within Gauteng.
The rose-ringed parakeet, psittacula krameri, is an invasive parrot species which inhabits urban areas of South Africa. Originally from India and North Africa, these birds are adaptable and have few natural enemies. In many parts of the world, they have managed to establish feral populations after escaping captivity.
They are currently listed as a category two invasive species in the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act. However, the impact of the species on local biodiversity and the environment is unknown.
The impact study will be complemented by parallel studies focused on the behaviour of these birds in Gauteng. This will improve understanding of the ecology and behaviour of the species in South African urban environments and ensure that informed decisions are made by policy-makers regarding the status and management of this bird.
All birders, citizen scientists, outdoor enthusiasts and members of the public are invited to assist with and collaborate on, the project by submitting sightings of these parakeets to the project database. The University of Witwatersrand is particularly in need of information on the exact location of permanent roosting and breeding sites, as well as the number of parakeets seen.
A data form can be downloaded from goo.gl/forms/jeAZ7qeZB3
Details: craig.symes@wits.ac.za; elize.fourie@wits.ac.za
