Red-crowned Amazon

The Red-crowned Amazon, also known as the Red-crowned Parrot, Green-cheeked Amazon, or Mexican Red-headed Parrot, is a vibrant bird adorned with a bright red forehead and crown. Its plumage is predominantly green, accented with a dark blue streak behind the eyes and light green cheeks. Underneath their wings, one may find splashes of red and blue, and their tails are tipped with a subtle yellow. A distinctive white eye-ring highlights their eyes, which can vary from bright yellow to deep red, though juveniles display gray eyes until they reach maturity. These birds have horn-colored beaks and ceres, occasionally marked with black, and their legs are either beige or gray. They measure approximately 11–13 inches in length and have a wingspan of 15–16 inches, with an average weight of 270 grams.

Identification Tips

To identify the Red-crowned Amazon, look for its signature red crown and forehead, blue streak behind the eyes, and light green cheeks. The white eye-ring is a key feature, and the bird's size and coloration under the wings can aid in identification. Unlike some Amazon parrots, they are not sexually dimorphic, so genetic testing is required to determine gender.

Habitat

The Red-crowned Amazon is native to the lowland forests of northeastern Mexico, where it thrives in the lush greenery.

Distribution

This species is endemic to northeastern Mexico and has been observed in southern Texas. It is a resident bird, meaning it does not migrate but may travel locally in search of food. Feral populations have established themselves in urban areas of southern California, southern Florida, and Oahu, Hawaii. In Texas, particularly the Rio Grande Valley, there are significant populations, although they are not protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918.

Behaviour

Red-crowned Amazons are gregarious, forming large flocks and are most vocal during morning and evening. They exhibit a characteristic screech when moving to new feeding areas. Their diet includes seeds, fruits, flowers, and nectar. They nest in tree cavities and are known for their expressive eye pinning, which indicates excitement. Their behavior is relatively easy to interpret, with various signs indicating their mood, from anger to contentment.

Song & calls

These amazons are known for their loud calls, particularly when in flocks, which can be heard over long distances.

Breeding

They reach sexual maturity at around five years and mate for life. The female incubates her eggs for about 28 days, with an average of four eggs per clutch. Fledglings begin at nine weeks old, and these birds prefer to nest in colonies, often returning to the same cavity annually unless disturbed.

Similar Species

While there are no similar species mentioned, it is important to distinguish the Red-crowned Amazon from other Amazon parrots by its unique coloration and range.

Diet and Feeding

Red-crowned Amazons feed on a variety of seeds, fruits, flowers, and nectar, foraging in the wild and adapting to available food sources in urban environments.

Conservation status

The Red-crowned Amazon is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, with a decreasing population due to illegal trapping for the pet trade and habitat destruction. Conservation efforts are crucial for the survival of this striking species.