According to history, the Greek emperor’s name was given to the parrot as he had transported numerous birds from Punjab to various European and Mediterranean countries and regions, where they were prized by royalty, nobility, and warlords. The bird used to be a favourite pet for many since it is said to be the talking variety of the parrot.

“Another importance of the spotting of Alexandrine parakeets here is that they have been found as a group of seven in a natural habitat. Such sightings are extremely rare as they were found as single ones earlier in the state,” said Hari Mavelikara, coordinator of Pathanamthitta Birders, a collective of birdwatchers in the district.

The Alexandrine parakeet is the largest of the parakeets found here. They measure 58 cm in length, with a long tail, and have a wing length of around 19 to 21 cm. The adult bird weighs between 200-300 gm. The parakeet is reported to live for up to 30 years in captivity.

Experts say they ideally prefer wooded areas as forests and orchards are their natural habitat. However, it is not clear how they reached the district as there were reports of them being illegally sold through pet shops.

The male Alexandrine parakeet also has a pink collar on the back of the neck, with a black stripe on the front. Juvenile Alexandrine parakeets look like the female, as they lack the neck collar and stripe. In adult birds, the irises are pale yellow and the periopthalmic rings are pale yellowish-grey.