The red-crowned amazon, also known as the red-crowned parrot, green-cheeked amazon or Mexican red-headed parrot, is an endangered amazon parrot native to northeastern Mexico and possibly southern Texas in the United States. A 1994 study estimated wild populations of between 2,000 and 4,300 mature individuals; the IUCN Red List considers it a globally endangered species with a decreasing population. The main threats to the native bird's survival are the illegal export of trapped birds from Mexico to the United States for the pet trade and the destruction of their natural habitat, the lowland forests of northeastern Mexico.
Region
Northeastern Mexico
Typical Environment
Naturally occurs in lowland and foothill forests, riparian woodlands, thornscrub, and mosaics of farmland with scattered tall trees. It favors forest edges, gallery forests along rivers, and areas with large cavity-bearing trees for nesting. The species adapts well to human-modified landscapes, frequently using orchards and urban parks. Outside its native range, established feral populations persist in several U.S. cities, where they roost communally and nest in palms and other large trees.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the red-crowned parrot or Mexican red-headed parrot, it is a charismatic Amazon parrot known for loud, social flocks and excellent mimicry in captivity. Significant feral populations occur in parts of the United States, especially southern California and south Texas, where they nest in urban trees. Its wild numbers have declined sharply due to trapping for the pet trade and habitat loss, and it is legally protected in Mexico and the U.S.
Head and neck
With wings partly unfurled
Mating with a yellow-headed amazon, in California
Temperament
social and noisy
Flight Pattern
strong direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Forms tight-knit pairs within flocks and gathers at communal roosts, especially outside the breeding season. Nests in natural tree cavities, often reusing sites year after year; clutch size is typically 2–4 eggs. Pairs maintain long-term bonds and show cooperative nest defense.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud, rolling squawks and screeches used for contact and alarm, often delivered in chorus by flying flocks. At close range they also produce softer chattering and warbles; captive birds are adept mimics of human speech and sounds.
Plumage
Mostly bright green with a vivid red crown and forehead, often with a bluish wash on the nape and upper neck. Flight feathers show blue tones; the bend of the wing may show small red areas. Feathers are smooth and glossy, giving a clean, uniform appearance in good light.
Diet
Feeds primarily on seeds, fruits, nuts, and buds from a variety of native and cultivated plants. Seasonal foods include figs, palm fruits, and legume pods, and they may visit orchards and backyard trees. They use their strong bill and zygodactyl feet to manipulate and husk food efficiently.
Preferred Environment
Typically forages in the forest canopy and along edges, moving between fruiting trees. In towns and cities, it readily exploits ornamental and fruiting trees and will feed in small, noisy groups.
