The Neumann’s Ring-necked Parakeet (Psittacula krameri borealis) is endemic to West Pakistan, northern India and Nepal to central Burma. Populations have been introduced worldwide in localities. There have been sightings of them in Hong Kong, Macao and China. This parakeet is endangered in its natural habitat and is a protected species (CITES II).
The Neumann’s Parakeet as Pet:
These beautiful parrots are quite hardy, and easy to train and tame — making them favorites for novice and expert hobbyists alike. Even parent-raised babies are easily tamed, and hand-feeding is not required to produce a tame, loving pet.
However, they are said to be more aggressive than the Indian Ringneck – training and behavior modification is necessary to discourage any undesirable behavior.
Socialization and regular handling, combined with lots of attention and time is the key to maintaining your tamed Ringneck’s friendly personality. If these conditions are not provided, they are likely to grow unfriendly and may become nippy.
The Neumann’s Parakeets are social birds. In the wild, they usually live in groups. Captive birds who do not have the benefit of a community of birds to socialize with need to be provided with plenty of daily interaftion and attention.
Some report that males make better pets, however, the opinions differ.
Some Ringnecks make excellent talkers, while others may not learn to talk at all.
All of the Ringnecks are highly intelligent and require plenty of toys to keep the stimulated – rotating them regularly, will help in keeping the parrot interested and stimulated. They also enjoy chewing, so chew toys and natural wood branches are strongly recommended.
Unlike some parrots, the Neumann’s Ringneck don’t usually like bathing — daily or at a minimum weekly misting is recommended to keep their plumage in good condition. Misting will also help keep the dander down in the environment. One has to remember that in the confinement of our homes, pollutants will collect in much greater density than they ever would in the wild. Especially in small, poorly ventilated spaces pollutants – such as dander, dried droppings and skin/feather mites – can be a major issue, daily ventilation (opening windows and doors) is the best and cheapest way to get fresh air into your home. If that is not possible — an air filtration system should be considered for those who are concerned about their pets as well as their own health.
Description:
The Neumann’s Ringneck averages 17 ins (43 cm) in length, with a wing length of 6.5 – 7 ins (170 – 178 mm).
The Neumann’s Ringneck is sometimes confused with other Ringneck species, especially the popular Indian Ringneck. The Neumann’s Ringneck is a little larger than the African and Indian Ringnecks and is reported to be slightly more aggressive. Other than size, they are quite similar in appearance to the nominate form (African Ringneck), except the Neumann’s Ringneck has less blue, which is limited to a narrow band at the nape. They also have pale grey coloring that appears on their breasts. Their beaks are a beautiful coral red and the lower beak may be partially or all black. Their bills are typically larger than that of the African Ringneck.
Breeding and Propagation:
Not much information is available — however, it is expected that breeding is similar to that of the Indian and African Ringnecks.
Care and Feeding:
Ringnecks love to climb and play and need to be provided with a cage that allows them to move around freely and toys to entertain themselves with. Please refer to the following websites for information:
- Optimal nutrition to keep your bird healthy
- Housing your bird
- The 3 Key Elements to Your Pet Bird’s Happiness and Health
- Caring for your companion bird
Training and Behavioral Guidance:
Conures, like other parrots, generally present their owners with several challenges, such as excessive screaming or chewing. They do discover their beaks as method of “disciplining us” once they are out of the “baby stage” and they can generally be somewhat naughty, and it really is important to learn to understand them and to guide their behavior before an undesirable behavior has been established. Undisciplined parrots will chew on electric wiring potentially causing house fires. They regard anything in your home as a “toy” that can be explored and chewed on; destroying items that you may hold dear or are simply valuable. Even a young bird that has not been neglected and abused requires proper guidance; this becomes even more challenging when it involves a rescued bird that may require rehabilitation.
- Web Resources: I put together web resources for you to help you understand your pet bird and properly direct him. Please visit the following website to learn more about parrot behavior and training.
Species: Scientific: Psittacula krameri borealis … English: Neumann’s Ring-necked Parakeet … Dutch: Neumanns Halsbandparkiet … German: Neumanns Halsbandsittich … French: Perruche à bande rose de Pakistane
