Blue-Fronted Amazon (Amazona aestiva) Species Profile: Diet, Vocalization, andBehavior

Amazona aestiva

The Blue-Fronted Amazon is part of the large group of parrots that make up the most popular group of pet birds. It has an unusually loving disposition, especially if hand-fed, and will readily interact with humans. It is an excellent mimic of human speech; and many Blue-fronts acquire a very large vocabulary.

Blue-fronts come from the tropical rainforests of northeast Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, and Paraguay and in the wild, tend to explore the upper levels of the canopy. You will want to provide a relatively high cage, and allow this bird to have some time to roam. Be careful of open doors and windows, however. The average cost of a Blue-Fronted Amazon is $700.

Quick Stats: Blue-Fronted Amazon

Family: Psittacidae
Origin: Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay
Size: 13-15 inches
Coloration: Primarily green; yellow face with the blue feathers around the beak; yellow and red shoulder patch.
Diet: 65-80% quality pelleted diet, 15-30% vegetables (e.g., greens, legumes, corn-on-the-cob), 5% fruits, and an occasional nut. Use many varieties of fruits and vegetables, washed thoroughly. No avocados or fruit pits. See Basic Nutrition for Psittacines (Parrot Family) for more information.
Cage Size: 3' H x 2' L x 2' W
Grooming: Trim 6-7 flight feathers; and clip tips of toenails.

Compatibility/Disposition: Can be territorial at breeding time; love human attention - can be demanding; need structured socialization.
Vocalization: Amazons are among the best talkers; can also scream.
Playfulness: Very active and playful; need many toys, large amount of exercise, and mental stimulation.
Life Span: 25-50 years
Age at Maturity: 2 years
Nesting Sites in the Wild: Hollow in large tree.
Breeding Season: October-March
Sexing: Males have two bulges at base of tail; and V-shaped pores from the knees to the top of the vent.
Special: Are very intelligent; can be prone to obesity.