Spot a parakeet
JOBURG - Researchers from the University of the Witwatersrand recently launched The Rose-ringed Parakeet Project, which aims to locate roosting sites and to investigate the size and distribution of the rose-ringed parakeet population in South Africa.
According to Elize Fourie, a researcher and project leader of the project, it will provide an understanding of the ecology and behaviour of the species in South African urban environments and will ensure that informed decisions are made by policymakers regarding the status and management of this parakeet.
Rose-ringed parakeets have no natural predators in Gauteng. They are native to southern Asia and sub-Saharan Africa and the world’s most invasive parakeet species.
In South Africa, where they became established in the 70s, they are classified as a Category 2 invasive species in the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act.
Well-established, actively breeding but fragmented populations occur in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal.
“Their occurrence and spread are strongly linked to human density, urban settlements and parks. However, the impact of the species on local biodiversity (native bird species) and the environment are not known and, therefore, quantifiable scientific data must be obtained,” Fourie explained.
The project will be complemented by parallel studies (in association with European researchers and ParrotNet) on the behaviour of these birds in Gauteng.
Fourie urged anyone who knew of a breeding site or spotted the bird anywhere in the Joburg North area to submit their data using Google Forms or via Birdlasser.
Fourie also advised that a nationwide Spot-a-Parakeet Day would take place on 22 August.
Details: urbanparakeets@gmail.com
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