Invasive parrot species have become increasingly common in Spain over the past few decades. Several species of parrots, originally from warmer climates, have established breeding populations in cities across Spain after escaping captivity or being intentionally released. While beautiful and charismatic, these loud and aggressive birds are disrupting native ecosystems and even urban infrastructure.
What parrot species have become invasive in Spain?
The most abundant and widespread invasive parrots in Spain belong to two species:
- Monk Parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus)
- Rose-ringed Parakeet (Psittacula krameri)
Monk Parakeets, native to South America, were first observed breeding in Spain in 1975 after some escaped from captivity. Now they are found across the country from Barcelona to Seville and the Canary Islands. Their large, noisy nests made of sticks can cause problems on electric utility structures.
Rose-ringed Parakeets are native to Africa and India. They began colonizing Spain in the 1970s as well, after escaping from pet shops and homes. They are now common sights in city parks and gardens. With their bright green plumage and red beaks, these vocal parakeets stand out against European cityscapes.
Several other parrot species have been spotted in Spain but do not have substantial breeding populations yet, including the Budgerigar, Cockatiel, and Yellow-chevroned Parakeet.
How did these parrots come to Spain?
Invasive parrots arrived in Spain through a combination of intentional and accidental introductions:
- Escape from captivity – Parrots pets that escaped or were released by owners into the wild.
- Pet trade escapees – Parrots meant for the pet shop trade that escaped at ports or from quarantine facilities.
- Intentional release – Some parrot colonies seem to have been started by intentional release of unwanted pets.
Spain’s history as a colonial port-of-entry from Africa, Asia, and the Americas facilitated many exotic species introductions. The pet industry and popularity of parrots as pets led to escapes and releases that gave rise to Spain’s many parrot colonies.
Where in Spain have invasive parrots spread?
Invasive parrots can now be found across many regions of Spain:
| Region | Major Cities with Parrot Colonies |
|---|---|
| Andalusia | Seville, Malaga |
| Catalonia | Barcelona, Tarragona, Girona |
| Valencia | Valencia, Alicante |
| Madrid | Madrid, Alcala de Henares |
| Canary Islands | Tenerife, Gran Canaria |
The largest populations are found in big cities which provide ample food sources, nesting sites, and warmer microclimates. However, parrots have adapted to cooler winters and spread north to cities like Girona and Tarragona.
What impacts are invasive parrots having in Spain?
The monk parakeet and rose-ringed parakeet are highly adapted to urban areas and have several notable impacts:
- Displacement of native birds – Parrots compete for nest cavities and food with native Spanish species like sparrows, starlings, and woodpeckers.
- Damage to crops and infrastructure – Large parrot nests can damage utility poles and electric substations. They also feed on orchards and agricultural fields.
- Nuisance noise pollution – Parrot calls and squawks can be very loud and pervasive in cities where they occur.
- Health hazards from droppings – Parrot roosting and nesting sites become covered in droppings that can pose a health hazard.
- Ecosystem imbalance – As generalist omnivores at the top of the food chain, parrots may imbalance delicate Mediterranean ecosystems.
However, not all effects are negative. Many people enjoy seeing the exotic parrots, which can bring attention to broader issues of biological invasions and responsible pet ownership. They also control some insect pests.
What is being done about invasive parrots in Spain?
Efforts to control invasive parrots in Spain include:
- Population monitoring and nest mapping programs in cities like Barcelona to track numbers.
- Removal of problematic nests from utility infrastructure.
- Trapping and euthanizing parrots to control populations.
- Restrictions on owning monk parakeets as pets to reduce escapes.
- Public education campaigns about responsible pet parrot ownership.
Complete eradication of the parrots seems unlikely at this point. The species are well-established across Spain. Going forward, containment of population growth, mitigation of damages, and adaptation to their presence may be more realistic goals.
Conclusion
Several species of escaped pet parrots, most notably monk parakeets and rose-ringed parakeets, have become invasive in Spain. Attracted by cities for their abundance of food, nesting sites, and warmth, these adaptable parrots have spread widely since the 1970s. While beautiful, they also create noise, damage infrastructure, compete with native birds, and disrupt ecosystems. Control efforts focus on population monitoring, problem nest removal, and education campaigns. However, the parrots are likely a permanent part of Spain’s avian landscape now.
