Yellow-naped Amazon
Amazona auropalliata
At the Zoo
Bird Aviary across from Koala Crossing and at the Koret Animal Rescue and Resource Center
Fascinating Facts
Yellow-naped Amazons are also known as Yellow-fronted Amazons or Yellow-headed Amazons. They have complex vocalization patterns, which has given them a reputation in the illegal pet trade as being “talkers,” making them desirable pets. This has contributed to their Critically Endangered status.
Physical Characteristics
Yellow-naped Amazons are approximately 14 inches in length, weighing between 11 – 18 ounces. The are mostly green, with yellow on the top of head and back of neck, red and dark blue feathers on the wings, orange eyes, and a greyish beak and feet. Males and females are similar in size and coloration.
Diet
They feed on fruits, seeds and flowers. They will also eat planted crops if available.
Habitat
They are found in forests, thorn scrub and mangroves.
Social Behavior
Yellow-naped Amazons are monogamous during breeding season and will nest in a tree cavity. After 2 – 3 eggs are laid, it will take 25 – 26 days to incubate the eggs. Pairs have complex vocalizations that they will use to pair bond, called “duetting”. They also vocalize to establish territory. Outside of breeding season, they can be seen flying overhead early or late in the day, to and from roosting sites in pairs or small groups. They stay local and do not migrate.
Status In The Wild
Yellow-naped Amazons are found in coastal areas of southern Mexico and Central America.
Other
Threats to Yellow-naped Amazons include habitat destruction and degradation. Much of their former habitat has been destroyed to plant sugar cane and rice. They are also highly prized in the illegal pet trade, with many eggs and chicks poached from nests. Some populations have seen a 98% decline over 3 generations or 35 years. There are an estimated 1,000 – 2,499 mature Yellow-naped Amazons left in the wild.