A Colorful Invasion
Marbella, renowned for its beautiful weather, stunning properties, and vibrant lifestyle, has seen an unexpected addition to its natural landscape: green parrots.
The Monk Parakeet, also known as the Quaker Parrot (Myiopsitta monachus), originates from South America's temperate and subtropical regions, specifically Argentina, Brazil, and Bolivia. These birds are distinctive for their bright green plumage, greyish chest, and the unique ability among parrots to build communal stick nests, often the size of small cars, in trees or on artificial structures.
A Brief History
The story of these green parrots, or cotorras, in Spain began in 1975 when they were first observed in Barcelona and Murcia. Initially brought over as pets, many of these birds escaped or were released into the wild. The first sightings in Barcelona and Murcia began their expansion across Spain. By 1978, populations had been recorded in the Costa del Sol region, particularly in Málaga, Marbella, and Estepona.
An Invasive Species
Antonio Román Muñoz, a researcher at the University of Malaga (UMA), has studied these birds extensively. In their native South America, cotorras are considered a pest to agriculture and are often hunted. The birds' adaptability and intelligence make them successful at colonizing new areas. They have become an invasive species in Spain, raising concerns about their impact on local ecosystems and agriculture.
Urban vs. Rural Impact
The debate about what to do with the cotorras varies depending on their location. In urban areas like Marbella, these birds do not negatively impact other local species. They add a splash of color to the city, attracting bird enthusiasts and tourists alike. Different bird species sometimes use their communal nests without conflict, and food resources appear abundant.
However, the situation is more complex in rural areas. The parrots have been spotted in agricultural regions such as the Guadalhorce Valley and the Axarquía region. Here, they pose a potential threat to subtropical crops, leading experts to suggest that now is the time to act before they become a more significant problem. In regions like Catalonia and the Balearic Islands, measures such as hunting and eradication have already been implemented to control their population.
Living with the Parrots
For those considering a move to Marbella, these green parrots add to the area's unique charm. Marbella's climate, protected by the Sierra Blanca mountains and balanced by the cool sea breeze, provides an ideal habitat for these birds. If you are exploring Marbella properties through agencies like Move2Marbella, you might find that these vibrant birds are part of the local allure.
Conclusion
The green parrots of Marbella present opportunities and challenges; they are now an undeniable part of the region's natural environment. Whether you are attracted by Marbella's weather, beautiful properties, or unique wildlife, the cotorras add an extra layer of color and interest to this stunning part of Spain.
In summary, these parrots' presence in Marbella is a testament to the city's rich biodiversity and balance between nature and urban development. As the local community and experts continue to monitor and manage their population, these vibrant birds remain a captivating sight for residents and visitors alike.
