A Stately, stand-offish beauty, the ringneck is not as "cuddly" as most other types of parrots, even among its own kind. Some birds form pairs only for breeding, then go their separate ways the rest of the year. All 13 species carry a distinctive narrow band of black feathers around the neck, making the ring-necked parrot easy to identify. Most ringnecks are green birds, with long, pointed tails and heads in various hues. The pretty plum-headed (Psittacula cyanocephala) and blossom-headed (Psittaculus roseata) parakeets sport purple heads and blood-red beaks. 

Countries of origin: Mostly India, Indonesia, African continent. Size: Medium-size and slender, 12 to 24 inches long and 110 grams on average. 

Personality: In general, not as approachable as other types of parrots; may not enjoy head scratches, for instance. However, can be affectionate if handled frequently. 

Talking ability: Moderate.

Average lifespan: 30-50 years.