Derby and Derbyshire are seeing a surge in bright green ring-necked parakeets, with the birds now turning up in parks, housing estates, school grounds, and even supermarket car parks.
Recent sightings in Derby — including large groups roosting above Coleman Street and Taylor Street — are now being matched by reports from across the county. What once felt like a rare sight is starting to look like a new normal.
Residents have been sending in photos showing the birds perched in tall trees, flying in noisy flocks, and gathering near lakes and open spaces. At Alvaston Park Lake, photographer David Turner snapped a pair resting on branches above the water, their feathers glowing in the late light.
Although the species originates from Africa and South Asia, these parakeets have steadily built strong feral populations in the UK over the past few decades. London and the South East have long been known hotspots, but the Midlands — and Derbyshire in particular — are catching up fast.
Sightings have recently been reported at: • Allestree Park, Derby • Alvaston Park Lake, Derby • Shardlow Road, Derby • Ladybank Road, Mickleover • Ashbourne Road, Derby • The Bemrose School area, Uttoxeter New Road • Haven Baulk Lane, Littleover • The Jonty Farmer, Kedleston Road • London Road, Alvaston • Markeaton Recreation Ground • Oakwood, Derby
The birds are also spreading beyond the city, with reports increasing from nearby towns and villages.
The leading theory is simple: today’s flocks are descended from escaped or released captive birds, with some escapes dating back to the 1960s. Once established, the species proved far more adaptable than many expected.
They cope well with the UK’s climate, make use of almost any green space, and happily feed on seeds, berries, garden feeders, and food scraps. Milder winters and easy access to nesting spots have made Derbyshire an increasingly suitable base.
Their bright colour and loud calls split opinion. Many people enjoy spotting something so striking in local parks. Others worry about noise, competition with native birds, and the impact larger flocks might have if numbers keep rising.
For now, the parakeets seem content settling into pockets of Derby and beyond, and the sightings keep coming.
If you’ve seen them where you live, send your photos or video clips to [email protected].
5. Alvaston Park Lake in Derby
Local David Turner captured ring-necked parakeets at Alvaston Park Lake in Derby. | David Turner
6. Alvaston Park Lake in Derby
David Turner has captured photos of the exotic birds in Derby | David Turner
7. Alvaston Park Lake, Derby
David Turner has captured photos of the exotic birds in Derby | David Turner
8. Parakeets in Birmingham & beyond
For now, these green invaders are drawing in birdwatchers, photographers, and curious residents alike - from Shard End to The Leasowes | Alec Longhurst