Hi, I’m Gianluca.
I studied cultural anthropology, and I’ve always been fascinated by the different ways people live, move, and experience a place.
Rome is not only my city – it’s the environment I love observing, understanding, and sharing through these small stories.
Together with my wife Connie, we host travellers in our small hotel near the Vatican, where we enjoy meeting people from all over the world and exchanging perspectives – just as I do here in the blog.
If you ever feel like saying hello while exploring Rome, you’ll find us on our terrace as well, where every morning we serve breakfast with a view.
Gianluca
In recent years, a lively community of parakeets has taken residence in Rome’s treetops, adding a splash of color and a chorus of chirping to the city’s green spaces. Known for their bright green feathers and noisy presence, these non-native birds have adapted remarkably well to Rome’s urban environment, thriving in the city’s mild climate.
A Brief History of Rome’s Parakeet Invasion
The two main species of parakeets in Rome are the rose-ringed parakeet (Psittacula krameri) and the monk parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus). These birds are not native to Italy but originally come from South America and subtropical Asia. The current parakeet population in Rome is believed to have originated from pets released or escaped from captivity several decades ago. Over time, the mild climate, abundance of food, and lack of predators have allowed these parakeets to establish a growing population in the city.
Rome’s Mild Climate: A Perfect Habitat for Parakeets
Rome’s Mediterranean climate—characterized by mild winters, warm summers, and consistent rainfall—provides an ideal environment for the parakeets. While the birds have had to adapt to cooler winters compared to their native tropical homes, they have shown incredible resilience. Parakeets can often be spotted basking in the sun on the city’s trees, particularly in areas like the Villa Borghese and Villa Ada parks.
An Ecological Impact: The Parakeet and Native Species
The arrival of parakeets has sparked some concern among ecologists. Parakeets are opportunistic feeders and adapt to various food sources, from fruits and seeds to flowers and even bird feeders in urban areas. This flexibility can lead to competition with native bird species, such as the Eurasian hoopoe and Italian sparrow, for food and nesting sites. Parakeets often take over tree hollows that other birds might otherwise use, affecting the delicate balance of Rome’s native ecosystem.
However, the relationship between parakeets and other species remains complex. Parakeets can actually help control the spread of certain insect species, which has a positive side effect on the local ecology. Their impact varies by area, and ongoing studies help gauge how they interact with native species.
Curiosities and Anecdotes: Parakeets and Roman Life
The vibrant parakeet flocks have become a part of the city’s landscape, especially popular with locals and tourists alike. In some Roman neighborhoods, their cheerful chattering adds life to otherwise quiet streets. Residents have shared stories of parakeets frequenting their balconies, where they peck at bird feeders or bask in the morning sun. Some Romans affectionately call them “the green Romans” and consider them an endearing, if noisy, addition to the city.
Interestingly, parakeets have adapted to urban life so well that they’re even seen near historically significant areas like the Forum and Colosseum. Their presence has drawn comparisons to similar situations in cities like London and Barcelona, where parakeets have also established significant populations.
Adaptation to a Changing World: Non-Native Species in Rome
The rise of parakeets in Rome highlights a broader ecological trend. With climate change and increased globalization, species are more frequently moving beyond their original habitats. Some thrive in new environments, like Rome’s parakeets, and these changes offer a unique perspective on urban ecology, raising questions about biodiversity and species adaptability.
For visitors staying at QuodLibet B&B, spotting Rome’s parakeets is easy—simply look up when you’re walking through one of the city’s beautiful parks, like Villa Borghese or Villa Pamphili, or even in the quieter areas around Prati.
