The Indian ring-necked parakeet, also called the rose-winged parakeet, has been kept as a pet for centuries and remains a favorite companion bird today. A devoted owner will do best with this temperamental bird that requires a great deal of attention to remain tame. However, the Indian ring-necked will charm and delight the person who takes the time to appreciate its other qualities — a playful exuberance and a remarkable talking ability.

Care & Feeding

Indian ring-necked parakeets are sensitive birds that need lots of playtime and time out of the cage to remain happy; if not, expect your bird to develop neurotic disorders that may be very difficult to reverse.

Because of the long tail, Indian ringnecks need a larger cage than another bird of the same relative size. Ringnecks love their toys and will hang on them and toss them around the cage, so be sure to have lots of toys on hand to replace the ones your bird destroys — this type of destruction is a normal, healthy part of being a companion bird. If you can handle a good deal of chattering, some of it ear-piercing, and you have the time and energy to spend with this beautiful bird, consider welcoming an Indian ring-necked parakeet into your family.

Indian ringnecks tend to have good appetites. As with any bird, make sure to feed a balanced, nutritious diet that includes pellets, fruit, veggies, and healthy table foods. This way you can be sure that your bird is nourished and will not become bored with his diet. Nutri-Berries, Avi-Cakes, and Premium Daily Diet are some of the Lafeber foods that offer optimum nutrition that encourages interaction.

These birds are reported to live for more than 30 years.

Personality & Behavior

Indian ring-necked parakeets can make sweet, tame pets but will not remain so if neglected. If played with every single day, these birds can be loving, loyal companions. If neglected, you can have a biter on your hands. These might not be the best birds for children, as ringnecks tend to be sensitive to the commotion, including night frights (thrashing around the cage during the night as if startled). Ring-necked parakeets are not shy birds, and will do best with an owner who appreciates an outgoing companion that is not afraid to demand what it wants!

Speech & Sound

These are chatty birds, especially when they learn to talk. You may delight in hearing your Indian ring-necked says its first few words, and then shortly realize that he won’t shut up! Be careful what you teach him because you will be hearing it loudly and often for many, many years. They are great whistlers too but try to teach words and phrases before whistling, or your bird may fancy whistling over talking and never learn many words.

Health & Common Conditions

Indian ring-necked parakeets are relatively healthy birds; however, they are susceptible to Polyomavirus, psittacosis, aspergillosis and bacterial infections. Indian ring-necked parakeets are excellent fliers and are capable of flying even after a recent wing-feather trim, so time outdoors should be in a harness or in a travel carrier to prevent them from flying away.