Alexandrine Parakeet

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs hours of out-of-cage activity and mental challenges every day.

• GroomingEasy upkeep

  Fresh bath water and an occasional mist are all they ask.

• Living spaceStandard cage

  A proper cage and daily out-of-cage time fit fine in an apartment.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment25–40 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Feather plucking · Respiratory issues · Obesity

The Alexandrine Parakeet (Psittacula eupatria) is the largest of the ringneck parakeets, native from Afghanistan and India through Southeast Asia, and is said to be named for Alexander the Great, whose armies helped spread it westward. Bright green with a maroon shoulder patch and a rose-and-black neck ring on males, it weighs 200-300 g and lives 25-40 years. Alexandrines are intelligent and capable of remarkably clear speech, but they are also independent and go through a well-known 'bluffing' phase in adolescence when hormones make them nippy. Consistent, calm handling through that stage produces a confident, affectionate companion; neglect it and the bird becomes cage-bound and defensive. Feed a pelleted base with sprouted seeds, vegetables, leafy greens and some fruit and nuts. These large, strong-flying parakeets need an oversized cage or aviary with room to stretch a long tail, plenty of hardwood chew toys, and daily flight and interaction. Given space, routine and mental engagement they thrive for decades; cramped, boring conditions lead to screaming, aggression and feather-plucking in this stately parakeet.

• How much activity does a Alexandrine Parakeet need?

  High. Needs hours of out-of-cage activity and mental challenges every day.

• How much feather care does a Alexandrine Parakeet need?

  Easy upkeep. Fresh bath water and an occasional mist are all they ask.

• What cage does a Alexandrine Parakeet need?

  Standard cage. A proper cage and daily out-of-cage time fit fine in an apartment.

• Is a Alexandrine Parakeet a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Alexandrine Parakeet live?

  25–40 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Alexandrine Parakeet?

  Keep an eye out for Feather plucking, Respiratory issues, Obesity. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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