Frequently Asked Questions

An Indian Ringneck Parrot (also known as the Indian Ringneck Parakeet or Rose-ringed Parakeet, Psittacula krameri manillensis) is a medium-sized parrot native to parts of South Asia, particularly India and Sri Lanka.  Ringnecks are very intelligent, capable of learning tricks and mimicking human speech which makes them very popular as pets. 

• Mature Size: About 14-17 inches (35-43 cm)in length, including their long tail.
• Color: The most commonly colored Indian Ringneck is bright green though they can come in various color mutations like blue, yellow (lutino), albino, grey and more due to breeding mutations.
• Distinctive Feature: Male Indian Ringnecks typically develop a black and rose-colored ring around their neck at around 18 months to 3 years old.  Females usually lack this ring or have a faint version.  

Indian Ringnecks are known to be excellent talkers among parrot species.  Some begin mimicking words as early as 6 months while others may take a year or more.  Consistently repeated phrases and socialization will increase the likelihood that your pet Indian Ringneck will talk.  However, whether your individual bird will talk is NOT guaranteed.  Some never show a desire to mimic but even without their ability to talk, an Indian Ringneck makes a wonderful pet to add to your family.

Indian Ringneck Parrots are curious, playful and part comedian.  They tend to be more independent than some other pet bird breeds but can still be very affectionate.  Just like all pet parrots, Indian Ringnecks require interaction with their owners and mental stimulation to remain well adjusted happy pets!  

Occasionally, some Indian Ringneck Parrots will experience what is termed a bluffing stage.   This is a temporary behavioral phase that typically occurs during adolescence, around 4 to 12 months of age.  It is similar to a "teenage phase" in humans and is completely normal.  It is characterized by increased irritability, sudden dislike of familiar people, possible biting, lunging or territorial behavior.  It can last a few weeks or months and then suddenly seem to disappear overnight!

• Stay calm and consistent - Don't punish your bird, yell or strike back!  This can lead to long term behavioral issues and lack of trust.   Remember, this is a short-lived phase. 
• Respect boundaries - Learn to read your Indian Ringneck's body language.  Avoid forced handling during aggressive moments.  
• Positive reinforcement - Reward calm behavior with treats and praise
• Keep routines - Stability and expected routine often helps reduce the stress both you and your bird may be feeling during this time
• Keep socializing - Don't isolate your bird; instead learn to interact on it's terms.  

One of the best ways we have found to handle our Indian Ringneck babies' bluffing stage is Target Training.  We aren't sure why this works but it goes a really long way to helping you and your bird to get through this temporary phase.  It helps reduce the irritable behavior and shorten your Indian Ringneck's time in the bluffing stage.  Check out 2 of our videos on Instagram: Target Training and Hazel's Bluffing Stage.

Word of hope: This phase usually passes in a few weeks or months, especially with gentle training and patience.  Not all Indian Ringnecks go through severe bluffing, but it is important to handle it thoughtfully and lovingly to maintain a strong bond.  It can be relatively easy to manage if you think things like "will you step up" and not "Step up!".  Before you know it, this phase will be over and you will have a sweet loving baby!  Please feel free to contact us with any questions or tips for managing this time.

"Many species of pet birds have a long lifespan, and most people who obtain a companion or aviary bird expect a long-term, rewarding relationship with their bird. An avian veterinarian, monitoring your bird’s health, can play a vital role in this goal. The Association of Avian Veterinarians recommends regular checkups for companion birds to ensure they live a full, healthy life." ~ Association of Avian Veterinarians

FIND A VET

Target training is a way to guide your Indian Ringneck to desired location, teach them tricks, build trust and communication and even redirect negative behaviors.  It's also a fun and engaging activity that provides mental stimulation for your pet. It increases communication and trust and helps build a bond between you and your Indian Ringneck friend.  It can also be the best way to redirect your Indian Ringneck during a bluffing phase.  Click on the link to watch a short, simplified version of Target Training you can use with your pet Indian Ringneck.  TARGET TRAINING

You absolutely CAN!  MORE ON THIS COMING SOON

Clipping a pet bird's wings can be a highly emotional and controversial decision.  At Heartwingkisses, all of our birds are allowed full flight.  However, there have been times when clipping one of our bird's wings was necessary due to health and safety issues.  The decision to clip your Indian Ringneck baby's wings is a deeply personal decision.  We can't make that decision for you but do recommend that if you are able, allowing your bird full flight is the healthiest option for an animal who was designed to fly.   Target training can help you get your bird down from unwanted places or get them back in their cage when free flight time is over.  We urge you to take time to train your bird to allow you a more natural and emotionally healthy life with your Indian Ringneck baby.  

All birds are flock animals.  They live in groups to increase the likelihood that they will survive a predatorial attack.  They call to each other to check on each other's wellbeing and to check on the safety of their surroundings.  YOU are a member of their flock consequently they will call to you when you are out of sight.  Birds also tend to be more vocal in the early morning and late in the evening just like the birds in your backyard.  This is a natural part of owning a bird as a pet.  A bird who is left alone and isolated much of the day can develop unwanted screaming out of boredom and loneliness.  This can eventually become an unwanted habit.  When you must leave the room, answer their call to let them know you are safe and not far away. You can reduce their time screaming by spending lots of time interacting and entertaining your pet Ringneck.  

FORAGING FOR PARROTS

Destructive chewing is a common behavior in parrots - including Indian Ringnecks.  Chewing is a natural, innate and necessary behavior for beak health and mental stimulation.  Indian Ringnecks' build their nests in logs by increasing the space (chewing) in a natural hollowed out log to lay their eggs  Chewing is instinct for them so while you cannot eliminate this behavior, you can redirect it. 

• Provide LOTS of SAFE appealing toys, both for foraging and chewing.
• Birdproof your home - limit access to off-limits areas/use deterrents on trim or on top of cabinets.  (Bird spikes have worked well for us. Some use brightly red colored paper or balloons)
• Train "leave it" or "No" commands (avoid yelling or scaring your bird)
• Increase mental and physical stimulation with daily out of cage time, trick training, toys and puzzles
• Avoid negative reinforcement - don't hit, spray or yell (this often backfires)

AVIAN CHLAMYDIOSIS AND PSITTACOSIS 

PBFD

AVIAN POLYOMAVIRUS

AVIAN BORNAVIRUS

SIGNS OF ILLNESS

At Heartwingkisses, we are not licensed veterinarians however, we have included a link from the Association of Avian Veterinarians to help you make that decision but REMEMBER, when in doubt, take your baby to the vet!  WHEN TO VISIT A VET

Indian Ringneck Parrots can live 20-30 years but with proper veterinary care, can live up to 40 years!  Many people will make arrangements in their will to provide for their pet Indian Ringneck should something happen to them.