Invasive monk parakeets raise concerns
The noisy green birds attracting attention around Sunset House, where they have built large communal nests high in coconut palms, are not Cayman’s native parrots. They are an invasive species known as the monk parakeet, according to the Department of Environment.
Also known as quaker parrots, the birds are native to South America and are believed to have become established in the Cayman Islands after escaping or being deliberately released from captivity.
“They are an invasive species in the Cayman Islands and are not native Cayman parrots,” said the department’s research officer, Jane Haakonsson. “They serve as a reminder of how important it is to keep non-native species from entering the wild.” For a more complete summary of the story, please see the below link:
Published on: Jul 18, 2026 05:43 PM