Not just Rome, parakeets have also invaded Bologna (and the consequences on the local fauna are terrible)

They adapt perfectly to new climatic conditions and have no predators: this is how ringed parakeets thrive in Bologna and threaten the local fauna and flora

TO Bolognaan invasion of ringed parakeets has raised concern among environmentalists and local residents. These little ones green budgiesnative to Pakistan and Central Asia, have become a common presence in the Emilian city, attracting attention with their bright colors and aerial acrobatics.

However, behind their harmless appearance, there is something hidden threat to local fauna. The phenomenon began about 35 years ago, when some specimens they escaped from a cage in Budrio, near Bologna. Since that time, the parakeets have acclimatised to the Italian climate and have started to reproduceforming numerous colonies.

Today, it is estimated that there are between 2000 and 3000 specimens in Bologna alone, as reported by Republic. Collared parakeets are an invasive alien species, scientifically known as Psittacula krameri. Their ability to adapt to new climatic conditions, including Italy’s cold winters, and the lack of significant natural predators have allowed these parrots to thrive. Not only are they able to survive, but also to feed easily on the fruit plants present in the city, putting the local flora at risk.

Because their impact is so devastating on native wildlife

The impact on native fauna is particularly worrying. Kind of like the blackbirds and the tits they are suffering the consequences of the invasion of parakeets, which compete aggressively for food and nesting sites. Parakeets, in fact, they often act in groupsdemonstrating territorial and aggressive behaviors that give them an advantage over native birds, forced to give way to these newcomers.

The invasion of parakeets in Bologna is not an isolated case. Global warming and climate change are favoring the expansion of many exotic species in Italy, with negative effects on local biodiversity. Insects, marine creatures, small mammals and other invasive birds are changing ecosystems, often irreversibly.

To counter this phenomenon, it is essential to increase public awareness on the importance of protecting local ecosystems and preventing the introduction of alien species. Raise people’s awareness about risks linked to the trade and possession of exotic species it is a fundamental step to preserve the biodiversity of our planet.

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