Invasive monk parakeets damage historic Round Rock water tower

The city of Round Rock is preparing for repairs to its historic water tower after invasive monk parakeets caused damage to its lighting system. The birds, identifiable by their orange beaks and green bodies, can be found throughout Central Texas and are known to cause damage to electrical lines and utility poles, according to the Texas Invasive Species Institute.

The current situation

According to city officials, the Parks and Recreation Department has installed deterrents to prevent further nesting and chewing on the tower. With protective measures now in place, the city is preparing to begin repairs.

The city has ordered new tank lights, which should arrive within the next few weeks, Communications Director Sara Bustilloz said. So far, Round Rock has committed approximately $35,500 to replace the damaged tank lights.

Round Rock's historic water tower, constructed in 1935, stands approximately 140 feet tall in the city's downtown. Out of commission as a water tank since 1986, the tower serves as a symbol for the city.

How we got here

Originally native to South America, monk parakeets were introduced to the U.S. in the 1960s through the exotic pet trade. Over time, many escaped or were released into the wild, establishing feral populations sometimes as common as pigeons.