The yellow-shouldered amazon, also known as the yellow-shouldered parrot, is a parrot of the genus Amazona that is found in the arid areas of northern Venezuela, the Venezuelan islands of Margarita and La Blanquilla, and the island of Bonaire. It has been extirpated from and reintroduced to Aruba and introduced to Curaçao.
Region
Northern Venezuela and the southern Caribbean (ABC islands)
Typical Environment
Occurs in arid and semi-arid thorn scrub, coastal dry forests, and cactus-dominated landscapes of northern Venezuela and nearby islands including Margarita, La Blanquilla, and Bonaire. It has been extirpated and reintroduced on Aruba and is introduced on Curaçao. Birds favor areas with tall columnar cacti, acacias, and scattered trees for nesting and feeding. They roost communally near feeding sites and water sources. Human-altered edges and ranchlands with remnant thorn woodland are also used.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 700 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This Nearctic–Caribbean parrot is adapted to xeric habitats, often nesting in cavities of large columnar cacti as well as trees. It has suffered from habitat loss and illegal pet trade, but focused conservation and nest-guarding programs have helped some island populations recover. Adults show vivid yellow patches on the shoulder and head, which are less developed in juveniles. It is intelligent, loud, and capable of limited mimicry.
Front view
Possible extinct subspecies from Aruba, A. b. canifrons
Temperament
social and vocal
Flight Pattern
strong flier with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, gathering into larger flocks at communal roosts. Forms long-term pair bonds and nests in cavities of trees or large columnar cacti, where both adults attend the young. Territorial around nest sites but otherwise gregarious at feeding and roosting areas.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, ringing squawks and harsh chatter carry over long distances, especially at dawn and dusk. Calls include repeated screeches and rolling phrases; birds may also produce softer contact notes within flocks.
