A delightful sight has been captivating amateur wildlife photographers at a park in north Belfast. The tropical ring-neck parakeets, adorned with emerald green feathers and a striking rose-red beak, have become the main attraction at Waterworks Park. These vibrant birds, originally hailing from the Himalayas, the Indian subcontinent, and parts of Africa, are a common sight across the UK, with sizable populations in London and the south-east of England. Approximately 15 of these colorful parakeets have made their home in the foothills of Cavehill.
According to the RSPB, ring-necked parakeets, also known as rose-ringed parakeets, are the UK’s only naturalized parrot species. Bird expert Dot Blakely, who conducts bird-watching courses at Belfast Metropolitan College and Queen’s University Belfast (QUB), believes that these particular parakeets traveled over from London before making their way to Waterworks Park. Blakely attributes the increased sightings of such birds to climate change, stating that many species are adapting and venturing into new territories.
Blakely estimates that there are between 13 to 15 parakeets residing in the park, suggesting that they have access to enough food to support a small colony and likely engage in breeding. The colorful birds have not only attracted the attention of photographers like Sharon Gregg but have also left locals charmed by their cheeky and comical demeanor. Despite their appeal, Conor McKinney, chair of Wild Belfast, warns that parakeets are classified as an invasive species, posing a threat to native wildlife like birds and bats. McKinney urges authorities to take action to prevent further dispersal of these birds and mitigate potential risks of ecological imbalance.
While the parakeets continue to enchant visitors and photographers alike with their vibrant plumage and playful antics, the debate surrounding their classification as an invasive species underscores the importance of conservation efforts to maintain the delicate ecological balance in the region
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