The orange-winged amazon, also known locally as orange-winged parrot and loro guaro, is a large amazon parrot. It is a resident breeding bird in tropical South America, from Colombia, Trinidad and Tobago south to Peru, Bolivia and central Brazil. Its habitat is forest and semi-open country. Although common, it is persecuted as an agricultural pest and by capture for the pet trade. It is also hunted as a food source. Introduced breeding populations have been reported in Puerto Rico and Tenerife in the Canary Islands.
Region
Tropical northern South America and Trinidad
Typical Environment
Occurs from Colombia and Venezuela through the Guianas to northern and central Brazil, and west to eastern Peru and northern Bolivia; also on Trinidad and Tobago. Frequent in lowland rainforest, riverine and gallery forests, mangroves, and semi-open country with scattered trees. Common around forest edges, savannas with palms, and agricultural mosaics. Often visits towns and villages where fruiting trees are available.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A highly intelligent parrot capable of impressive vocal mimicry, often forming strong pair bonds that can last for years. The orange wing patch is most visible in flight, helping distinguish it from other green amazons. It adapts well to human-altered landscapes and may raid fruit crops, which contributes to local persecution. Established introduced populations exist in places like Puerto Rico and Tenerife.
Egg, Collection Museum Wiesbaden
Temperament
social and noisy
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with strong, direct flight
Social Behavior
Typically found in pairs or small groups and gathers in larger flocks at roosts. Forms long-term monogamous pairs that stay in close contact year-round. Nests in tree cavities, with both parents attending the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, harsh screeches and croaks carry over long distances, often given in flight. Also produces chattering whistles and can mimic a variety of sounds, especially near human settlements.
Plumage
Mostly green with a mix of blue on the forehead and yellow on the cheeks and crown; distinctive orange underwing coverts revealed in flight.
Diet
Eats a wide variety of fruits, seeds, nuts, and flowers; palm fruits are often favored. Frequently visits fruiting trees such as mango and citrus near settlements. Will take cultivated crops, which can bring it into conflict with farmers. Uses the powerful bill to crack hard seeds and manipulate food with the feet.
Preferred Environment
Forages mainly in the canopy and at forest edges, along rivers, and in mangroves. Also uses wooded savannas, plantations, and urban parks with fruiting trees.
