Exploring the Global Phenomenon of Naturalized Parrots
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Chapter 1: The Paradox of Endangered and Thriving Parrots
Parrots represent one of the most threatened bird categories globally; however, the populations of several parrot species are, surprisingly, on the rise. What accounts for this contradiction?
Parrots have been cherished and bred in captivity for thousands of years, yet they remain fundamentally wild creatures. Our affinity for these vibrant, engaging birds has fueled the international parrot trade, leading to their establishment of breeding communities in unfamiliar territories.
Determining the exact number of parrot species that have been introduced—either accidentally or intentionally—beyond their native habitats is challenging, but we can draw some conclusions from existing data. For instance, between 2002 and 2016, bird enthusiasts and citizen scientists recorded over 19,000 sightings of free-flying parrots in the United States. Furthermore, at least 56 parrot species have been observed across 43 states. According to CITES data, from 1981 to 2018, 290 out of approximately 404 recognized parrot species were imported into the U.S. This indicates that at least one in five imported parrot species has successfully adapted to life in urban skies across the country. Many of these free-flying populations have thrived for generations, earning the designation of "naturalized." Unlike invasive species, which can harm crops, spread diseases, or cause structural damage, naturalized parrots do not pose such threats.
These figures do not account for numerous unreported sightings of free-flying parrots globally, suggesting that many more parrot species might be coexisting with us than we officially recognize.
Despite the increasing number of naturalized parrot populations worldwide—save for Antarctica, which raises questions about future colonization due to climate change—16 parrot species have gone extinct in their native habitats, and another 118 are currently at risk of extinction. This makes parrots one of the most endangered bird groups on the planet. Interestingly, some naturalized parrot populations in urban settings even surpass their endangered relatives in numbers. How is this possible?
Naturalized Parrots: Adaptation and Urban Life
The adaptability of parrots is just one of the captivating themes explored in the new book, Naturalized Parrots Of The World: Distribution, Ecology, and Impacts of the World’s Most Colorful Colonizers (Princeton University Press, 2021). This volume, authored by leading ornithologists and edited by evolutionary ecologist Stephen Pruett-Jones, delves into the complexities surrounding naturalized parrot populations globally. It is the first comprehensive scientific work dedicated to this subject and one of the few focused on naturalized animal populations.
The book is elegantly presented in hardcover, spanning 304 pages divided into two parts. Part I consists of nine chapters penned by specialists in their respective fields, covering topics such as the global parrot trade, the geographic spread of naturalized populations, their genetics, ecological effects, management strategies, and even the controversial topic of whether these populations should be eradicated.
The question of eradication frequently arises due to the visibility of naturalized parrots, which are often large, colorful, and vocal. Their ability to thrive in crowded urban environments is noteworthy enough to have its own term: synanthropy. This term describes undomesticated species, like parrots, that benefit from their proximity to humans. Fascinatingly, studies indicate that this relationship is mutually beneficial.
Among the various parrot species, two stand out for their adeptness at urban life: the rose-ringed parakeet (Psittacula krameri) and the monk parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus). Each of these species is examined in detail in separate case studies in Part II, along with additional chapters that explore the dynamics of naturalized parrot populations in urban settings and the conflicts that may arise from such close interactions.
Each chapter is insightful and engaging, featuring clear introductions and summaries along with extensive reference lists. The book is rich in visuals, including graphs, diagrams, and photographs that enhance the reader's understanding.
As an ornithologist and parrot researcher, I found several discussions particularly stimulating, especially regarding the potential of naturalized populations as reservoirs of genetic diversity that could aid their dwindling wild counterparts. Additionally, the exploration of epigenetics and its role in habitat adaptation is intriguing. Innovative technologies, such as CRISPR, are also being investigated for their potential to manage invasive species by skewing their sex ratios.
Another area of interest is the fate of naturalized parrot populations that have disappeared from their established territories, notably the once-thriving budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus) flocks in Florida, which experienced a sudden decline. What lessons can be gleaned from this event to assist conservationists in safeguarding endangered species?
This scholarly yet accessible collection provides a wealth of information about the distribution, genetics, ecology, and behavior of naturalized parrots. It is an essential read for anyone interested in parrots and conservation, including ornithologists, conservation biologists, urban planners, veterinarians, and even pet owners. The book serves as a complementary resource to Thinking Like A Parrot for those seeking a deeper understanding of parrots and their interactions with human environments.
NOTE: I received a hard copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest, unbiased review. Additionally, as an Amazon Associate, I earn micropayments from qualifying Amazon purchases made through links in this piece.
The video titled "Naturalized Parrots | Donald J. Brightsmith | NAOC 2020" provides further insights into the fascinating world of naturalized parrot populations, shedding light on their ecological roles and the implications of their presence in non-native habitats.