Amazona mercenarius
The Scaly-naped Amazon (Amazona mercenarius) is a captivating, medium-sized parrot endemic to the Andes, typically measuring 30-35 cm (12-14 in) in length and weighing between 300-400 g (10.5-14 oz). Its plumage is predominantly a brilliant green, subtly differentiated by unique dark-edged feathers on its nape, creating a distinctive 'scaly' pattern that gives the species its common name. Key identification marks include a prominent red patch on the bend of the wing, particularly noticeable i...
This Amazon primarily inhabits humid to semi-humid montane cloud forests, subtropical forests, and forest edges, typically at high elevations ranging from 1,000 to 3,500 meters (3,300-11,500 ft) above sea level.
The diet primarily consists of a wide variety of fruits, berries, seeds, nuts, and flowers, supplemented by leaf buds. They forage primarily in the forest canopy, using their powerful beaks to crack open tough shells and tear apart fruit.
Scaly-naped Amazons are diurnal, spending their days actively foraging and engaging in social interactions, often forming large, noisy flocks outside the breeding season that converge at communal roosts in tall trees at dusk. Their foraging strategy involves agile climbing through the forest cano...
The Scaly-naped Amazon boasts a wide, albeit disjunct, distribution across the Andes Mountains of South America, spanning from northern Venezuela and Colombia, southward through Ecuador and Peru, and extending into Bolivia. It primarily occupies humid montane and cloud forests at elevations typic...
Least Concern
- The Scaly-naped Amazon is one of the highest-dwelling parrot species, regularly found at elevations over 3,000 meters (10,000 feet) in the Andes. - Its common name comes from the distinct dark-edged feathers on its nape, creating a unique 'scaly' appearance. - Despite their vibrant green plumag...