Alien Parakeet threatens Black Parrot |19 December 2005

Although an isolated case it is extremely alarming for the future of the endemic Black Parrot found only on Praslin.

During the past two years the MENR has been conducting an eradication programme on the invasive parakeet on Mahé.

The purpose behind the campaign is to prevent the spread of a species whose impact is already being felt in the agricultural sector.

The Ring-Necked Parakeets are attractive, lively birds that are very good at establishing themselves where they are introduced, becoming pests of gardens and orchards. 

The issue of concern is that if one has reached Praslin then more can reach the island.
The public is reminded that although the Ring-Necked Parakeet may look cute and may make a nice pet, the danger it poses to the Black Parrot is extremely alarming.  Therefore the public is being discouraged to take it as a pet.  It has potential to compete with the Black Parrot for food and breeding sites.

On Praslin there is already a shortage of nesting sites for the endemic parrot and the ministry has in the past, together with Cable and Wireless, invested a significant amount of money in building artificial nest boxes.

The parakeet sighted on Praslin appears to frequent the Consolation and Amitié areas and is difficult to locate. It is not clear yet whether the bird was introduced by humans or whether it flew to the island, hence the ministry would appreciate any information members of the public may have on the subject.

The bird on Praslin was not screened for any diseases thus in addition to competing directly with the Black Parrot for food and nesting site the parakeet may also be transporting various diseases that may eventually harm the Black Parrot.

The likelihood of more parakeets reaching Praslin is now considered high and already the ministry has intensified its effort to look for the bird on Praslin.

The ministry would like to take the opportunity to launch an appeal to the members of the public both on Mahé and Praslin to remain vigilant so as to help keep the green parakeet off the island and to help in its eradication.  The public is reminded that if they come across the specie they should report it to the Green line on telephone number 722111 or the environment office on Praslin (232984/722474)

The public is advised that they should not attempt to kill the parakeet themselves but to contact the department since the bird can learn to be weary of people very quickly
The Ring-Necked Parakeet can be distinguished by its entirely green colour, long tail and red beak. Its presence is often indicated by its sharp characteristic call distinct from any local bird species calls.

Contributed by MENR