Orange-winged Amazon

One of our most recognizable residents: the Orange-winged Amazon.

The Orange-winged Amazon (Amazona amazonica) is a widespread and common bird species of the Amazon. Even though they are hunted for their meat or feathers or captured and being sold as a pet, they are still seen in large groups trying to find some food along the way.

The Orange-winged Amazon is due to its size (31 cm) not easily overlooked. Another important factor: they are quite noisy especially in the mornings before departing. Fruit, seeds and nuts are always on their 'grocery' list when it is feeding time. 

The Orange-winged Amazon is always seen in a pair, joining other couples during their journey. During breeding season they look for trees with a hole or a rotten tree. Picture above you can see one Amazon resting on top of a rotten tree, used as a nest. In the second picture you can see why they are called 'orange-winged', an orange patch is seen clearly on top of their wings.

As you can see, the Orange-winged Amazons are using tree holes during the nesting period. Both male and female take turns to take care of the next generation. 

When they are resting or eating, it is often difficult to spot them as most of their plumage is almost completely covered in green. When it is not easy to see the orange patch on top of their wings, look for their yellow cheek and blue crown. Another thing to recognize them is by their sound. Here is an audio of their call.

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