Amazona dufresniana
The striking Blue-cheeked Amazon (Amazona dufresniana) is a magnificent Neotropical parrot instantly recognizable by its vibrant plumage and distinctive facial markings. Measuring approximately 34 cm (13.4 inches) in length and weighing around 500-600 grams, this medium-sized parrot is predominantly bright green. Its namesake feature is a prominent patch of deep blue on its cheeks and extending slightly onto the ear-coverts, beautifully contrasted by a yellow or orange forecrown and lores. A ...
Primarily inhabiting humid, lowland tropical rainforests and wet montane forests, often near water sources, from sea level up to approximately 1,700 meters. They prefer areas with dense tree cover.
Their diet primarily consists of various fruits, seeds, nuts, flowers, and buds, foraged directly from the tree canopy. They are important seed dispersers within their ecosystem.
Blue-cheeked Amazons are diurnal, typically spending their mornings and late afternoons foraging, with a quiet period for rest during the midday heat. They roost communally in large, emergent trees within the forest canopy, often forming small flocks of up to 30 individuals, though pairs and smal...
The Blue-cheeked Amazon is endemic to a restricted region of northern South America, primarily found in southeastern Venezuela (particularly Bolívar State), Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and an isolated population in northeastern Brazil (specifically the states of Amapá and Pará). They are res...
Vulnerable
- The Blue-cheeked Amazon's scientific name, *dufresniana*, honors Louis Dufresne, a French ornithologist and natural historian. - Despite its vivid colors, it is exceptionally camouflaged within the dense tropical forest canopy, making it challenging to spot. - Like many parrots, it uses its pow...