Johnny Wee‘s image of a Alexandrine Parakeet (Psittacula eupatria) eating an unripe rambutan fruit (Nephelium lappaceum) suggests that it prefers the seed rather than the flesh. The image was taken at Seletar in Singapore. It must have been an escapee (see comments).
An earlier post on a Rainbow Lorikeet (Trichoglossus haematodus) LINK failed to show whether it prefers the flesh or the seed. In the case of the Blue-crowned Hanging Parrot (Loriculus galgulus) LINK it is obvious that it is eating the flesh.
Johnny Wee
Singapore
September 2013
Roelant Jonker
The picture shows an Alexandrine parakeet (Psittacula eupatria). I did not know those occurred in Singapore.
BESG
Yes, I am afraid you are right. Will check where was it photographed.
BESG
The parakeet was photographed at Seletar, Singapore. Thanks for pointing out the mistake Roelant. The post has been amended. It must have been an escapee, as stated by Chiu San, below.
Lee Chiu San
Alexandrines are not native to Singapore, but they are common in the bird trade. Since Psittacula parakeets in general do not have a strong pair bond, are not affectionate and do not make good pets, it would not be surprising if disappointed owners released their unwanted birds.
Subaraj
This Alexandrine Parakeet has been hanging around Seletar Camp for a few years now and is often encountered with the Red-breasted Parakeets found there. Escapes of this species have been found locally from time to time.
Roelant Jonker
Ok! She might hybridise with the other Psittacula species. Would like to hear if that actually occurs.
Bird Ecology Study Group Birds and rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum) fruits
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