The Puerto Rican Amazon, also known as the Puerto Rican Parrot, is a vibrant green parrot native to the forests of Puerto Rico. It is easily recognized by its bright green plumage, blue-tinged flight feathers, and a red forehead. A white ring around its eyes gives it a distinctive and expressive appearance. These parrots are medium-sized and have a strong, hooked beak ideal for cracking seeds and fruit.
Once widespread, the Puerto Rican Amazon is critically endangered due to habitat destruction, hunting, competition with invasive species, hurricanes, and the caged bird trade. In the 1970s, only 13 birds were in the wild; in 2024 that number is up to 50 individuals with around 200 additional birds in captive breeding programs. Their numbers remain low, making them one of the rarest parrots in the world.
This species native habitat is tropical rainforests, where it feeds on fruits, seeds, flowers, and leaves. They are cavity nesters, often using hollow tree trunks to raise their young. Puerto Rican Amazons are social birds, often seen in small groups or pairs. Their vocalizations include squawks, whistles, and chatters, which help them communicate and maintain bonds within the flock.
Today's addition to our Birdorable flock is an endangered species of parrot, the beautiful Puerto Rican Amazon. The Puerto Rican Amazon, also known as the Puerto Rican Parrot, is a Critically Endangered bird endemic to the island of Puerto Rico. Known for its vibrant green feathers, blue-tinted... Read more »
