The fascinating reason why you might spot exotic birds flying around London

When you think of London’s wildlife the likes of squirrels, foxes and rats might come to mind. But how about a brightly coloured parrot originating from Africa and southern Asia.

They’ve been seen all over the city, especially in hot spots such as parks and gardens. And while London’s wild parakeet population has now become an everyday part of being a Londoner, many people might still be wondering how exactly they got here.

Parakeets are medium-sized green parrots, with a lifespan of between 15 and 30 years. If you see one you’ll be likely to spot a flurry of green feathers, with their wingspan reaching around 45 centimetres.

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There’s plenty of stories and urban legends about how the parakeets arrived in London. One theory even names Jimi Hendrix as the culprit, who is said to have set two of the birds free on Carnaby Street in 1968, reports the National Geographic.

Another theory suggests that parakeets escaped from the set of the 1951 film The African Queen which was filmed in West London, according to the Natural History Museum.

But in reality scientists believe that London’s parakeet population has grown from a series of releases of the exotic bird which were being kept as pets over the years. The exotic birds have now become naturalised in the UK, likely being aided by the warmer winters happening here.

The birds may have made it out of captivity for a variety of reasons. One idea is that the ‘parrot fever’ of the early 1930s and 1950s, a respiratory disease that can result in pneumonia and jump from birds to people, may have made people release their parakeets into the wild, say the Natural History Museum.

While the London parakeets certainly have a novelty factor, they can bring several issues. Although not necessarily aggressive, the birds have been noticed competing with other native species for food and roosting cavities.

Where can I see the London parakeets?

Parakeets can be seen in many parts of the city. One of the best places to get up close and personal with them is in Kensington Gardens.

The exotic birds can also be seen flying around Victoria Park, Regent’s Canal, Richmond Park, Kew Gardens, Hyde Park and more. For the best chance of spotting the parakeets, take a pair of binoculars and make sure you’re listening out for birdsong.

Got a story? Please get in touch at katherine.gray@reachplc.com

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