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Indian Ringneck Flocking Behavior

There is nothing like watching ringnecks in their wild state, flying free. I’ve observed these birds for so long that every detail and behavior about them fascinates me; it’s truly mesmerizing. Watching a flock of ringnecks offers a glimpse into their natural world, revealing behaviors and interactions that are both captivating and educational.

While stumbling upon this video of Indian Ringnecks, I couldn’t help but notice the spacing between each bird. Did any of my fellow ringneck owners or enthusiasts notice? The spacing among their flock mates is incredible, almost like a checkerboard, defining the square each bird can stay in. Also, notice how they stay with their own kind, looking to each other for modeling. We can learn a lot from these birds just by observing their natural behaviors.

Often, ringnecks are compared to conures because they are of similar size. This leads many new parrot keepers, and even some so-called “experts,” to make assumptions about how Indian Ringnecks should behave in captivity – sitting side by side, snuggly, and being needy. Because these parrots don’t have these traits, and they don’t fit the pet industry’s narrative of what we believe these parrots should possess as pets, they are often deemed “cat-like,” “best for the aviary,” or “independent.” This is absolutely not true. These birds operate in flocks and need engagement just like a conure. We ringneck owners should learn from this by watching their behavior and implementing it with our pets, plus educate those who perpetuate this myth.

Look at their eyes, the constant pinning. Often, owners associate eye pinning with aggressiveness, but it’s just a natural way ringnecks communicate. This pinning can be intimidating, but it’s just one way they express themselves. My specialty is with ringnecks, and having worked with many other parrot species, I believe people tend to associate eye pinning with Amazon parrots, who pin their eyes when agitated. Don’t let this eye pinning intimidate you, nor let it be a reason to not handle your bird. Aggressive behavior in an Indian Ringneck is characterized by both the top of the feathers being raised and the eyes pinning; not just eye pinning.

In the video, you might notice moments when some birds dart off while the flock moves as a single entity. Each ringneck is eating, yet they all keep a careful eye on their surroundings. This behavior tells us a lot about how these birds interact with their environment and how they might behave as pets in our homes; again, which “experts” love to deem these birds as skittish.

If you have a ringneck as a pet, it’s important to keep them engaged and involved with your family as much as possible. Having stands in different rooms or a portable stand can help keep your ringneck happy and integrated into your daily life.

Ignore the myths that Indian Ringnecks don’t like companionship. This is false and misleading information. Trust those who have studied these birds extensively, rather than parrot collectors who have experience with only one or two ringnecks.

Best wishes,

IMRAN-C

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