Amazon Parrot Basics
Native to the New World, the Amazon parrot is a green, short winged parrot that has a natural range from South America to Mexico. There are 27 species of Amazon parrot and some of them are found in such great numbers that they are regarded as pests by farmers. In other areas these birds are almost extinct.
In order to protect local populations of the Amazon parrot, international trade in these birds is banned but they are bred in captivity with great success and are a popular pet bird in the United States. An Amazon parrot will cost in the region of $800 to $1600. In general the better talkers are more expensive.
The Amazon parrot is a good mimic and enjoys talking. They are considered as second only to the renowned talking talents of the African Grey Parrot
. There has been some argument as to whether these birds actually 'talk' rather than mimic their owners. Experiments have made it clear that parrots actually talk in a similar way that we do. They are extremely clever birds and are able to speak in context, not just at random.
One Amazon parrot can name about 40 different objects, count how many objects it is looking at and name seven colors. It can also say if the items are the same or not. Experts suggest that parrots are as intelligent as dolphins, monkeys or three year old humans!
Back in the rainforest where it originates the Amazon parrot leads an active, social, even playful life. These same traits come to the fore when they are kept as pets. Amazons love interaction but can also be stubborn and moody, quiet, jealous, silly and aggressive - so they do need patient owners. Anybody who wants to keep an Amazon as a pet will need to learn to understand and tolerate its moods.
Each Amazon parrot will have its own character and moods. Talking ability does vary from bird to bird as does its tendency to perform tricks. However this has a lot to do with how much time the owner is willing to invest in training their bird. Where possible, don't leave your bird alone at home, cooped up in his cage. Amazons love to be around people.
Keep your Amazon parrot healthy by feeding it a balanced diet consisting of fruits and vegetables, fresh water, a fortified parrot pellet mix, treats of seed mix. Never feed your parrot chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, avocado and apple seeds as these can make your bird sick. Amazons in captivity may live for 40 to 60 years so be prepared for a lifetime commitment.
