From Trees to Survival: Conserving the Nesting Habitats of the Alexandrine Parakeet and Rose-ringed Parakeet

The Alexandrine Parakeet (Psittacula eupatria), a large and ecologically significant parrot of South Asia and the rose-ringed parakeet (Psittacula krameri), a medium-sized parrot native to Africa and the Indian subcontinent, are increasingly threatened by habitat loss and the decline of suitable nesting sites. The present study investigates the nesting tree preferences of the parakeets, documenting tree species, structural characteristics, and habitat distribution of active nesting sites, as their survival is closely linked to the availability of suitable nesting trees. Current research documents 11 tree species, belonging to 8 families, utilized by the parakeets for nesting. Native forest trees such as Shorea robusta, Ficus benghalensis and Mangifera indica were the most frequently used, while cultivated species like Cocos nucifera and Samanea saman also provided nesting opportunities. The findings emphasize the species’ reliance on mature, cavity-bearing trees and highlight the threats posed by habitat loss and urbanization. Nesting was observed predominantly in semi-urban, peri-urban and forest-edge habitats where old trees are retained, illuminating the critical role of remnant mature trees in human-modified landscapes. The study emphasized that conservation strategies must prioritize the protection of these trees, integrate biodiversity-sensitive planning into urban and rural landscapes and consider supplemental interventions such as artificial nest boxes. Protecting and managing nesting habitats is essential not only for the reproductive success of the parakeets but also for the broader preservation of avian biodiversity in changing ecosystems.