The article discusses the presence of wild parakeets in London, which have thrived for over 50 years. Initially dismissed as escaped cage birds, they have gained official status since 1983 and now define London's avian landscape. Despite their popularity among urban dwellers, especially younger generations, a survey indicates widespread hostility towards these non-native birds, particularly among the older rural population. The author expresses fondness for these vibrant birds for their colorful contribution to the city, pondering their potential future place in Britain’s bird hierarchy.
I've never seen one in Somerset. That might be just as well, given that a survey last year revealed widespread hostility to the birds.
Yet they were still scarce and localised, and it seemed as if they would remain so for the foreseeable future.
I wonder if, just as chicken tikka masala has been adopted as a national dish, these gaudy interlopers might eventually displace the robin as Britain's national bird.
Yet despite large flocks in London and other British cities, parakeets haven't yet spread to the countryside.
Collection
[
|
...
]