Alexandrine Parakeet

About the species

Despite a name that suggests a small "parakeet," the Alexandrine Parakeet (Psittacula eupatria) is actually one of the largest species in the genus Psittacula, measuring 56-62 cm in length, much of which is its long, graduated tail. It is named after Alexander the Great, who, according to tradition, had these birds carried along trade routes from the Punjab to Greece and the Mediterranean, from where their popularity among European nobility is said to have spread centuries before today's pet trade existed. This is the standard account of how the name originated, though detailed historical records of the actual transport are scarce.

Weight and beak

An adult weighs between 200 and 300 g and wields an exceptionally powerful beak capable of chewing through even fairly hard wood without difficulty - which is why cages and aviaries need to be built from metal or welded mesh, since wooden structures are destroyed quickly. It also needs a large amount of flying space; a minimum aviary length of around 4.5 m is commonly recommended, and daily time outside the cage is essential, as permanent cage confinement is not an acceptable option for this species.

Lifespan

In captivity, Alexandrine Parakeets typically live 25 to 30 years, and individual birds have been documented living close to 40 years. That means a bird bought as a chick can remain with its owner for their entire adult life - in many cases even outliving the original caregiver - so it is worth arranging in advance for its long-term care.

Vocalizations

Its calls are loud, deep, and resonant - described as considerably stronger than those of smaller, related Psittacula species - which is one reason the Alexandrine is kept relatively rarely as a companion bird in Europe. Without enough attention and enrichment, calling can become even more frequent and louder, making the species less suited to apartments and densely populated living situations.

Talking ability

Alexandrine Parakeets are considered capable mimics of human speech, though they typically don't match the vocabulary size of African greys or amazons; with early, consistent socialization they learn to whistle and repeat individual words and short phrases. Sexual dimorphism in males isn't visible right away - the characteristic black neck ring and pink nape band only fully develop at sexual maturity, usually between two and three years of age, so young males look similar to females until then.

Protection and CITES

The species is listed on CITES Appendix II, and the IUCN moved it from "Near Threatened" to "Least Concern" in 2025 after populations in parts of its natural range showed signs of stabilizing. Despite that improvement, it remains under pressure from habitat loss and extensive, often illegal, trapping for the pet trade - between 1981 and 2014 alone, at least 57,772 birds were imported into countries outside its native range. For that reason, it makes sense - and in many places is also a legal requirement - to buy only captive-bred birds from reputable breeders, never birds of unclear origin.

Who it suits

An Alexandrine Parakeet can be an affectionate, closely bonded companion if hand-reared and well socialized, but during periods of hormonal activity - particularly in sexually mature birds - it can become territorial and prone to biting, which can be quite painful given how powerful its beak is. Because of this, its large size, loud calls, and multi-decade commitment, the species is not recommended for beginners or for families with young children without constant supervision, and instead suits experienced bird keepers who can provide a spacious flight aviary, daily social interaction, and understanding for occasional behavioral challenges.

Pros & cons