What do you think about efforts to cull and trap feral parakeets?

October 23, 2025 7:12pm CST
Did you know there are at least 56 species of parrots thriving in 43 U.S. states? And even more surprising—feral Monk Parakeets have managed to establish successful, breeding populations in countries all over the world, from the U.S. and Canada to Great Britain, France, and even Japan! These colorful birds really get people talking. Some see them as an “invasive nuisance” because of concerns about the environment, health, and even the economy. But others aren’t so sure they’re causing serious harm, and they’re strongly against harsh measures like culling or trapping. I’ve been reading about this lately, and I came across some interesting ideas about more humane ways to manage these growing parrot populations. Apparently, some cities are facing the same kinds of challenges, so it’s definitely a global thing.
5 people like this
4 responses
@dfollin (26626)
• United States
22h
I didn't know there were that many! Wow! Learn something every day! I don't know parakeets well, but I hardly think they are harmful.
2 people like this
11h
Apparently they build huge nests and when they build them amidst electrical lines and such it can be a fire hazard. I mean, the nests can be as big as a car. But still, the methods they are using to reduce the numbers of these birds makes me feel sad.
@dfollin (26626)
• United States
5h
@eli908640 Wow! I have never seen that.
@dfollin (26626)
• United States
5h
@eli908640 Where does this happen at?
@LadyDuck (485651)
• Italy
15h
I know that parakeets can cause significant damage to crops and vineyards. They eat fruits and grapes from vineyards, they are a serious nuisance for the farmers. I hope humans will find a more intelligent way to reduce the population than they did for pigeons. Those grey grackles introduced to eat the pigeon eggs are now a nuisance.
1 person likes this
@LadyDuck (485651)
• Italy
8h
@eli908640 - Humans make mistakes all the time with animals. They import animals thinking that it's a good idea and later they need to get rid of them.
11h
Hi Anna! Wow, that is so interesting. I wonder if that is why carrier pigeons are extinct. And yes, its a fine balance that when disturbed just creates another problem.
@jstory07 (146221)
• Roseburg, Oregon
22h
I would not think a parakeet could do much harm.
1 person likes this
11h
I know, right? From what I'm reading some people think they need to take decisive action in reducing the numbers of these gorgeous birds.
@Tampa_girl7 (53589)
• United States
19h
I hadn’t heard of this. I have always thought they were pretty.
1 person likes this
@Tampa_girl7 (53589)
• United States
7h
Yes, quite beautiful.
11h
Yes, I love them, they are both cute and beautiful!