Hilarious theories about where London's parakeet population came from

Move over pigeons, London’s real feathered celebrities are bright green, noisy, and have a flair for drama.

If you’ve ever strolled through the city’s parks and spotted a flash of emerald followed by a raucous squawk, congratulations! You’ve just met one of London’s famous wild parakeets.

These exotic-looking birds aren’t just a quirky addition to the skyline; they’ve become full-time Londoners. No one’s quite sure how they got here - was it Jimi Hendrix? A Hollywood movie set escape? Or a Heathrow Airport mishap? Whatever the origin, they’ve made themselves very comfortable.

Today, thousands of parakeets rule the trees from Richmond to Hyde Park, charming tourists and hijacking bird feeders across the capital.

Love them or loathe them, there’s no denying that London’s parakeets are here to stay.

Where did London’s parakeets come from?

The exact origin of London’s parakeets is uncertain, and several myths surround their introduction:

1. Jimi Hendrix Theory – The rock star supposedly released a pair of parakeets on Carnaby Street in the 1960s.

2. The African Queen Theory – Some believe they escaped from the set of The African Queen (1951), filmed at Shepperton Studios.

3. Pet Trade Escapes – More likely, many parakeets escaped from aviaries or were released by pet owners.

4. Heathrow Incident – A shipment of parakeets allegedly broke free from a container at Heathrow Airport.

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Where to see wild parakeets in London

1. Kensington Gardens & Hyde Park

Best Spot: Near the Peter Pan Statue in Kensington Gardens.

Why? This is one of the most famous places where parakeets will land on your hand if you bring apples, grapes, or birdseed.

Bonus: Great photo opportunities with parakeets perched on your arms!

2. Richmond Park

Best Spot: Near Pembroke Lodge or in the Isabella Plantation.

Why? Richmond Park is home to a large parakeet population, often seen flying in groups.

Bonus: You might also spot deer while you're here!

3. Bushy Park

Best Spot: Woodland areas and near the Water Gardens.

Why? Less crowded than Richmond Park but still packed with parakeets.

Bonus: Red deer and historic landscapes make this a beautiful visit.

4. Hampstead Heath

Best Spot: Around Parliament Hill and Golders Hill Park.

Why? You can see them nesting in tree hollows and flying above the fields.

Bonus: Incredible panoramic views of the London skyline.

5. Battersea Park

Best Spot: Around the Peace Pagoda and near the boating lake.

Why? A peaceful park where parakeets can be spotted feeding in the trees.

Bonus: Combine your visit with a riverside walk along the Thames.

6. Greenwich Park

Best Spot: Near the Flower Garden and around the trees by the Observatory.

Why? One of the best places in South London for parakeets.

Bonus: Stunning views from the hill, plus a chance to explore the Royal Observatory.