A green invasion: Parakeets flock to the Midlands – including Derbyshire!
Discover the striking rise of ring-necked parakeet flocks as they make themselves at home across the Midlands. Captivating photographs, including shots from Alvaston Park Lake in Derby captured by local photographer David Turner, showcase the vivid green spectacle.
These bright, tropical-looking birds with their unmistakable squawks are actually a non-native species—yet they’ve managed to establish vibrant, thriving populations throughout the UK.
Where Can You Spot Them in Derby? Keep your eyes (and ears) open at these local hotspots:
- Allestree Park
- Alvaston Park Lake
- Shardlow Road
- Ladybank Road, Mickleover
- Ashbourne Road
- The Bemrose School, Uttoxeter New Road
- Haven Baulk Lane, Littleover
- The Jonty Farmer, Kedleston Road
- London Road, Alvaston
- Markeaton Recreation Ground
- Oakwood
How did they get here – And why are they thriving?
- Escaped pets: The leading theory is that these parakeets descend from escaped or released pets, with origins possibly tracing back to the 1960s.
- Adaptable survivors: Parakeets are incredibly resilient, easily adjusting to urban and suburban life. Their diet is flexible too—seeds, fruits, and bird feeders all do the trick.
- Mild winters: The West Midlands’ relatively gentle winters allow these tropical birds to survive—and even thrive—year-round.
- Plentiful resources: With abundant parks, gardens, and green spaces, there’s no shortage of food or nesting spots.
- Friendly humans: Many locals enjoy feeding them, which further encourages these birds to settle and breed in populated areas.
1. Parakeets spotted in Elmdon Park in Solihull
The rise of parakeets across the entire Midlands has seen flocks grow from 24 to 500 in just eight years | Julie Barnsley
2. If you’ve walked past Aldi on Coleman Street in Derby lately, you might’ve noticed more than bargains catching your eye. Dozens of bright green parakeets have taken up residence in the treetops, turning the supermarket car park into a scene straight out of the tropics.
If you’ve walked past Aldi on Coleman Street in Derby lately, you might’ve noticed more than bargains catching your eye. Dozens of bright green parakeets have taken up residence in the treetops, turning the supermarket car park into a scene straight out of the tropics. | James Mullan
3. Parakeet sighting map in Derbyshire
Map showing parakeet sightings in Derby & beyond | Derbyshire Wildlife Trust
4. Alvaston Lake, Derby
David Turner has captured photos of the exotic birds in Derby | David Turner