Australian ringneck parrot

Australian ringneck parrot

Park closure

Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park will be closed until 2 pm on Thursday 25 June and all day on Friday 26 June due to a funeral and memorial service following the passing of a senior Aṉangu woman. Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park will re-open at 6.30 am on Saturday 27 June.

More information: Park closures on 25 and 26 June 2026 due to Sorry Business

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 Muṯitjulu Waterhole is a great place to start.

Scientific name

Barnadius zonarius

Pitjantjatjara/Yankunytjatjara name

patilpa or pulaly-pulalypa