The mealy amazon or mealy parrot is among the largest parrots in the genus Amazona, the amazon parrots. It is a mainly green parrot with a total length of 38–41 cm (15–16 in). It is native to tropical Central and South America. This species, the southern mealy amazon, the northern mealy amazon are considered conspecific.
Region
Central and South America (Neotropics)
Typical Environment
Found from humid lowland forests of Central America south through the Amazon Basin and adjacent foothills in northern South America. It favors tall evergreen rainforest, riverine and gallery forests, forest edges, and mature secondary growth, and it can sometimes venture into plantations and cultivated areas. Birds often commute between roosts and feeding sites over long distances and may gather in sizable flocks at fruiting trees. It is primarily a canopy-dwelling species but will descend to lower levels to feed when resources are available.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The mealy amazon, also called the mealy parrot, is among the largest Amazona parrots and is named for the pale, powdery 'mealy' frosting on its green plumage. Taxonomically, some authorities split it into Northern and Southern mealy amazons, while others treat them as conspecific. It forms strong pair bonds and gathers in large communal roosts. Although capable mimics, they are powerful, loud birds that require ample space and are not truly domesticated.
Note the characteristic mealy ("flour") texture over the back and nape of neck.
A mealy amazon (left) with two yellow-crowned amazons (right and center)
Egg, Collection Museum Wiesbaden
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong flier with steady, rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small groups, but can form large flocks at roosts and feeding sites. They are cavity nesters, typically using large tree hollows. Pairs maintain long-term bonds and cooperate in nesting and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud, carrying squawks and screeches used for contact and flock cohesion. At close range they also produce softer growls, whistles, and chatter, especially around roosts and feeding trees.
