Birds
Orange-winged Amazon
Amazona amazonica
Flashing orange-and-blue wing patches in flight and bright yellow cheeks at rest, an orange-winged amazon joins a noisy flock heading toward a communal roost, one of the most common parrots across much of South America.
Overview
The orange-winged amazon, Amazona amazonica, is a Least Concern bird found across lowland forest and rainforest throughout much of northern and central South America. Its distinctive orange-and-blue wing patches, bright yellow cheeks, and status as one of the most abundant and widely kept Amazon parrots make it a familiar sight and sound across its extensive range.
A parrot known far beyond its range
Beyond its abundance in the wild, the orange-winged amazon is also one of the most commonly kept parrot species in captivity worldwide, a popularity that reflects both its striking appearance and its relatively calm, adaptable temperament.
Status
Least Concern, remaining abundant and widespread across suitable forest habitat throughout its range in northern and central South America.
Orange-winged Amazon: common questions
Why is it called the orange-winged amazon?
It shows patches of orange and blue within the wing, most visible during flight, a feature that gives the species its common name.
Is the orange-winged amazon common?
Yes, it ranks among the most frequently encountered and widely kept parrots in the Amazona genus, found abundantly across much of its South American range.
What does the orange-winged amazon eat?
It is a herbivore, eating fruit, seeds, nuts, and flowers foraged from forest canopy.
Does the orange-winged amazon form flocks?
Yes, it often gathers in noisy, vocal flocks, particularly at communal roost sites.