The red-tailed amazon, also known as the red-tailed parrot, is a species of parrot in the family Psittacidae. It is native to the Serra do Mar coastal forests. The bird has been threatened by habitat loss and capture for the wild bird trade, and is a symbol of the efforts to conserve one of the Earth's most biologically diverse ecosystems. Consequently, it is considered Near Threatened by BirdLife International and the IUCN. In 1991–92, the population had fallen below 2000 individuals. Following on-going conservation efforts, a count and estimate from 2015 suggests a population of 9,000–10,000, indicating that this species is recovering from earlier persecution. A recent study shows that the population of this species is stable at Paraná state, Southern Brazil, revealing population trend fluctuation during the last 12 years.
Region
Atlantic Forest, southeastern Brazil
Typical Environment
Occurs along the coastal lowlands and foothills of the Serra do Mar in Paraná and southern São Paulo. It favors remnants of lowland and submontane Atlantic Forest, restinga scrub, and mangroves, and frequently roosts on nearby coastal islands. Birds commute between mainland feeding sites and island roosts. Nesting typically takes place in cavities of large old-growth trees within protected or remote forest patches.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This striking parrot is a flagship for conservation of Brazil’s Atlantic Forest and roosts communally on coastal islands, notably within Superagui National Park. It suffered heavy declines from habitat loss and illegal capture, but targeted nest protection, habitat management, and public awareness have fostered recovery. Its bright red tail is especially conspicuous in flight. Despite improvements, ongoing protection is essential due to its small range and persistent trade pressures.
Upper body
At Parque das Aves, Foz do Iguacu, Brazil
In captivity
Temperament
social and noisy
Flight Pattern
strong flier with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically forms pairs during breeding and small to medium flocks outside the season, gathering in larger groups at dusk to roost on coastal islands. Nests in cavities of mature trees, with pairs showing site fidelity. Both parents attend the nest and defend territories around nest trees.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, raucous screeches and squawks carry over long distances, especially during commuting flights to roosts. At close range they add harsh chatters and squeals, with excited chorus-like calling at communal roosts.
Plumage
Predominantly bright green with subtle darker scalloping, contrasted by a vivid red tail. The head shows bluish tones on the forehead and crown with paler, whitish facial areas; primaries are edged bluish. Overall appearance is a classic green Amazon with a bold tail color.
Diet
Feeds mainly on fruits, seeds, and blossoms of native Atlantic Forest trees and palms. Important foods include figs, myrtles, and other seasonally available fruits; it also takes cultivated fruits opportunistically. Foraging is usually methodical in the canopy, with birds holding items in the foot and husking with the strong bill.
Preferred Environment
Most often forages in forest canopies, forest edges, restinga vegetation, and occasionally in orchards or small farms near forest. Commutes between island roosts and mainland feeding sites, concentrating where fruiting trees are abundant.
