Australian ringneck parrot
This large, noisy, bright-green parrot is hard to miss.
Growing up to 38 cm, the Australian ringneck has a long tail, black head and yellow ring on the back of its neck.
They mainly eat seeds but also feed on nectar, insects, fruits and native bulbs. They tend to feed in the morning or late afternoon to escape the heat of the day.
Australian ringnecks lay their eggs in tree hollows and enter through a hole in the trunk. They often perch in desert oaks and are usually in pairs or small flocks.
You are mostly likely to spot them near water – the Kuniya walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole is a great place to start.
Scientific name
Barnadius zonarius
Pitjantjatjara/Yankunytjatjara name
patilpa or pulaly-pulalypa