The Alexandrine Parakeet is one of the most widely kept parrot species in the world, admired for both its appearance and personality. With its elegant body structure, vibrant green plumage, long tail, and impressive talking ability, this species has lived closely alongside humans for centuries, especially in South Asia and the Middle East. Today, it also adapts perfectly to home environments as a companion bird.

In this article, we will get to know the Alexandrine Parakeet (the Small Alexandrine) in detail: its origin, character, training, diet, and more.

Origin and Natural Habitat
The Alexandrine Parakeet has a wide natural distribution:

• Native to India, Pakistan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

• Also found in Northeast Africa and the Middle East.

• In the wild, they usually live in open woodlands, agricultural areas, and city parks.

• They live in flocks and communicate loudly.

• In India, they have historically been kept as palace birds.

Physical Characteristics
The Alexandrine Parakeet is known for its slim and elegant body structure:

• Average length is 38–42 cm (including its long tail).

• Weight ranges between 100–140 grams.

• Plumage is bright green; wingtips may show bluish hues, and the tail can have yellowish shades.

• The beak is prominently red and curved.

• Males develop a black and pink ring around their neck (appearing at about 2–3 years old). Females either lack this ring or have a faint version.

• The eyes are surrounded by a pale ring.

Character and Behavior Traits
The Alexandrine Parakeet is highly social, intelligent, and energetic:

• They can form strong bonds with their owners.

• Enjoy exploring, climbing, and playing with toys.

• Have good mimicry skills; they quickly pick up tones, whistles, and melodic sounds.

• They demand attention; when left alone, they may develop behavioral issues such as feather plucking or screaming.

• They can get along with other birds but still require individual attention.

Speech and Mimicry Ability
The Alexandrine Parakeet is well known for its talking ability:

• Males generally have a higher potential for learning words.

• They can learn around 50–100 words.

• They are able to mimic tone of voice and even emotions.

• Can learn short phrases such as “Hello,” “How are you,” “Come here.”

• Starting training at a young age helps expand their vocabulary.

Diet
Balanced nutrition is vital for both physical and mental health:

• Main foods:

  • Commercial pellet feed (daily staple)

  • Seed mixes (in moderation): millet, safflower, canary seed

  • Vegetables: carrot, zucchini, broccoli, peas, spinach

  • Fruits: apple, banana, pear, seedless grapes

  • Cooked legumes: lentils, chickpeas, beans

  • Natural calcium sources: cuttlebone

• Avoid:

  • Avocado, chocolate, alcohol, caffeine, onion, garlic

  • Salty, fatty, or sugary foods

  • Stale or moldy food

• Fresh, clean water should always be available.

 

Cage Selection and Placement
The Alexandrine Parakeet is an active bird and requires a spacious living area.

• Minimum cage size: 60x60x90 cm

• Horizontal bars for climbing, natural perches, swings, and enrichment toys should be included.

• The cage should be placed away from drafts, in a bright and social environment.

• It should be allowed to spend several hours outside the cage every day.

Training and Interaction
The Alexandrine Parakeet is open to training and can be easily tamed with patience.

• It can easily learn stepping up, talking, and responding to whistles.

• Positive reinforcement (treats, praise) is effective.

• Daily short training sessions should become a habit.

• Once bonded, it enjoys sitting on the shoulder and spending time with its owner.

Hygiene and Cleanliness
Cleanliness is important for both health and comfort.

• The cage bottom should be changed several times a week.

• Feeders and water bowls should be washed daily, and fresh food and water should be provided.

• Toys and perches should be disinfected weekly.

• Bathing: a spray bath or large water dish should be offered a few times a week.

Health and Veterinary Care
With good care, Alexandrine Parakeets can live 25–30 years.

Common health problems:

• Feather plucking (stress-related)

• Overgrowth of beak and nails

• Respiratory diseases

• Digestive problems (due to improper diet)

• Vitamin deficiency (especially vitamin A)

Veterinary care:

• Annual exotic vet check-up

• Beak and nail care

• Parasite prevention

• Early intervention in case of behavioral changes

Living with an Alexandrine Parakeet
This parrot species is not only a bird but also a friend and a family member.

• It may greet you with sounds in the morning.

• It may accompany your conversations during the day.

• Its calm nature makes it suitable for both children and elderly people.

• When provided with regular attention, playtime, and a safe environment, it lives happily and healthily.

• Due to its long lifespan, it requires long-term commitment.

The Alexandrine Parakeet, with its elegant appearance, intelligent character, speaking ability, and social nature, is a perfect companion for bird lovers. Suitable for both beginners and experienced bird owners, this species can become one of the most colorful members of your life with the right care, patience, and knowledge.