Amazona vittata
The Puerto Rican Amazon (Amazona vittata) is a medium-sized parrot, measuring 28-30 cm (11-12 in) long and weighing between 250-300 grams. Its plumage is predominantly a vibrant grass-green, slightly paler on its underparts. Key distinctive field marks include a striking bright red forehead band that extends from eye to eye, a prominent white eye-ring, and vivid blue primary flight feathers that are clearly visible in flight. The tail is yellowish-green, often with a red base. Taxonomically, ...
Strictly forest-dwelling, found in dense humid montane and lowland forests, especially mature tabonuco and sierra palm forests, from sea level up to 1,000 meters.
Frugivorous and granivorous, consuming a wide variety of native fruits, seeds, flowers, nectar, bark, and young leaves from over 60 different plant species, often foraging high in the forest canopy.
Diurnal, Puerto Rican Amazons are active from dawn to dusk, departing communal roosts in small groups to forage and returning before sunset. They are primarily arboreal foragers, adeptly navigating the forest canopy to manipulate food items with their strong feet and beaks. During the breeding se...
Historically, the Puerto Rican Amazon was widespread across the entire island of Puerto Rico, inhabiting diverse forest types from lowlands to montane regions and even mangroves. Today, its wild range is severely restricted to two main populations: the primary naturally occurring population resid...
Critically Endangered
- The Puerto Rican Amazon once numbered over a million individuals but plummeted to a mere 13 wild birds by 1975, making it one of the most endangered birds on Earth. - It is the only parrot species native to the island of Puerto Rico and has been present there for at least a million years. - Con...