Amazona pretrei
The Red-spectacled Amazon, *Amazona pretrei*, is a striking medium-sized parrot, typically reaching about 32 cm (12.5 inches) in length. Its plumage is predominantly a brilliant emerald green, with a distinctive "spectacled" pattern of bright red feathers around the eyes and lores. A variable patch of yellow often adorns the forehead and crown, sometimes extending to the cheeks, creating a vivid contrast. Further red markings are present on the bend of the wing and the base of the outer tail ...
This species primarily inhabits subtropical and temperate Atlantic Forest, with a strong preference for remnants of *Araucaria angustifolia* (Paraná pine) forests, typically found at elevations between 200 and 1000 meters.
The Red-spectacled Amazon's diet predominantly consists of seeds, especially those from the *Araucaria angustifolia* pine, supplemented by other native fruits, flowers, and buds. They forage primarily within the canopy of forest trees.
Red-spectacled Amazons are highly diurnal and social birds, often observed in pairs or small family groups during the breeding season, but forming large communal roosts and feeding flocks outside of it. Their foraging strategy primarily involves acrobatically plucking seeds and fruits directly fr...
The Red-spectacled Amazon historically ranged across the subtropical and temperate Atlantic Forest biome of southeastern Brazil, extending into northeastern Argentina (Misiones province) and northeastern Uruguay. However, its current distribution is severely fragmented and drastically contracted,...
Critically Endangered
- The Red-spectacled Amazon is one of the most Critically Endangered parrot species in the world, primarily due to habitat loss. - Its survival is heavily dependent on the presence of the *Araucaria angustifolia* pine, making it a critical seed disperser and predator for these forests. - These pa...