Indian Ringneck Parakeet Habitat

Indian Ring-necked Parakeets are a medium to large-size parrot and thrives in a habitat that simulates its natural environment of open country with trees and urban parks.Since it grows to 16 inches in length and lives up to 25 years, selecting a proper cage from the start will reduce the chances of having to purchase a more accommodating cage later. Along with size, cage quality is important to provide a safe habitat for the Indian Ring-necked Parakeet.

  1. Cage Size, Spacing and Materials

    • The minimum cage size for larger birds is equal to 1-1/2 times the adult wingspan of the bird, or about 24 inches wide. Because of the ring-neck's long tail, the minimum cage height should be no less than 30 inches to prevent tail injury. The bar spacing should be no less than 3/4 of one inch and no more than 1-3/8 of an inch. Cages that are not stainless steel and that are made from alloys such as zinc and lead, are deadly to all birds.

    Lighting

    • Providing a small nightlight near the cage prevents night frights and injuries.

      Another necessary part of the Indian Ring-necks' habitat is lighting and sleeping time. In the wild, parrots roost and sleep when the sun goes down and are active when the sun comes up, which equals to about 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of darkness. Parrots require all the rays of the sun, which are blocked by glass panes, to make vitamin D, so a full spectrum light bulb provides optimal lighting conditions for indoor birds. Using a cage cover simulates a nesting enviornment, reduces noise and allows birds to rest undisturbed.

    Inside the Cage

    • A clean environment prevents illness and disease.

      The inside of the cage should be equipped with two natural perches that differ in size, but are still appropriate for the size and grip of the Indian Ring-neck's feet. A snuggle hut prevents night chills and offers a place to hide if startled by vacuum cleaners or new people. One or two habitat-enrichment toys, foraging baskets and natural chew toys keep parrots from turning to self-mutilation and other severe behavior disorders that include screaming and biting.

    Cage Surroundings

    • In the wild, Indian Ring-necked Parakeets watch the world from tree tops, which also allows them to watch for predators. Placing the cage near a window, but away from drafts, vents and doors will provide a safe and quiet haven that also allows the bird to people watch and interact with the family. Because birds are very sensitive to aerosols, candles, fumes and cleaners, setting the cage away from areas that contain such items will prevent respiratory disorders that can be fatal.