Mealy Amazon

Overview

The mealy amazon, or mealy parrot (Amazona farinosa), is one of the largest parrots in the Amazona genus and is native to tropical Central and South America. It is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List, though it has declined locally due to habitat loss and trapping for the pet trade.

Identification

• A mainly green parrot measuring 38–41 cm in length, with a relatively short and square-shaped tail.
• Features a whitish, flour-like tinge on the back and nape, giving rise to its common name.
• In flight, displays a bluish-black trailing edge on the wings and a conspicuous red speculum.
• Can be distinguished from the similar yellow-crowned amazon by its larger size, less yellow crown, and broader white eye-ring.

Habitat

This species frequents humid to semi-humid forests and plantations across tropical Central and South America, while rarely occurring in deciduous forest. In areas dominated by open or dry habitats, it is restricted to gallery forest or may be completely absent.

Diet

The mealy amazon feeds on a diet consisting mostly of fruits, seeds, berries, nuts, blossoms, and leaf buds. It occasionally feeds on human crops, particularly corn, which can lead to it being considered a crop pest.

Did you know?

In captivity, the mealy amazon is reported by owners to be one of the gentlest and calmest of all amazons, possessing a docile and affectionate temperament towards humans.