Amazona viridigenalis
The Red-crowned Amazon (*Amazona viridigenalis*), also known as the Green-cheeked Amazon, is a vibrant, medium-sized parrot endemic to northeastern Mexico, with significant introduced populations thriving in urban areas of the United States. Measuring approximately 30-33 cm (12-13 inches) in length and weighing around 270-320 grams, its plumage is predominantly brilliant green, strikingly contrasted by its diagnostic bright red forehead and crown, which lends the species its common name. A di...
Primarily inhabits humid to semi-arid tropical and subtropical evergreen or deciduous forests and woodlands, often near riparian areas. Introduced populations thrive in diverse urban and suburban environments with mature trees, ranging from sea level to about 1,000 meters elevation.
Feeds predominantly on a wide variety of fruits, seeds, nuts, flowers, and nectar, with a strong preference for ripening and mature fruits from canopy trees. Forages actively within the forest canopy and mid-story.
Red-crowned Amazons are highly social and diurnal, typically active from sunrise to late afternoon, congregating in large communal roosts at night. Their foraging strategies primarily involve clambering through the canopy to feed on fruits, seeds, and flowers, often in pairs or small family group...
The native range of the Red-crowned Amazon is restricted to a relatively small area in northeastern Mexico, encompassing the humid to semi-arid lowland forests of southern Tamaulipas, eastern San Luis PotosÃ, and northern Veracruz states. This native distribution has undergone significant contrac...
Endangered
- The Red-crowned Amazon is one of the most endangered parrot species in its native Mexico, primarily due to habitat loss and illegal pet trade. - Wild individuals can live for 30-40 years, while those in captivity have been known to live for over 50 years. - They are highly intelligent birds and...