Psittacula

Psittacula is a genus of parrots in the family Psittacidae, commonly referred to as parakeets. The genus comprises several species of medium to large parrots native to tropical and subtropical Asia, with one species extending into Africa. Members typically have slender bodies, long tails, and predominantly green plumage, often with colorful markings on the head, neck, or shoulders. The name Psittacula is derived from psittacus, the Latin term for parrot.

Notable species include the rose-ringed parakeet (Psittacula krameri), the Alexandrine parakeet (P. eupatria), the plum-headed parakeet (P. cyanocephala), the red-breasted parakeet (P. alexandri), the slaty-headed parakeet (P. himalayana), Derby's parakeet (P. derbiana) and Finsch's parakeet (P. finschii). The blue-winged parakeet (P. columboides) also belongs to the genus. Some populations have extensive feral ranges outside their native areas.

Ecology and behavior: Psittacula species are largely seed- and fruit-eaters, often visiting gardens and cultivated crops. They are generally social and form pairs or small flocks; many species are territorial during breeding. They nest in tree cavities. Males may display toward females with head and neck coloration; many species are sexually dimorphic.

Conservation and captivity: Several Psittacula species face habitat loss and trapping for the pet trade, with Derby's parakeet listed as critically endangered; others have stable populations or are widespread due to captivity and feral populations. They are popular in aviculture, though captive breeding strains and imports affect wild populations.