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Green-cheeked Amazon

Red-crowned Amazon, Mexican Red-headed Parrot

Family: PsittacidaeAmazona viridigenalisPhoto Wiki Commons, courtesy Racherl Fogarty.
Licensed under Creative Commons Share Alike 2.0 Generic

   The pretty Red-crowned Amazon is one of the most agreeable of the Amazon Parrots!

   The Green-cheeked Amazon Amazona viridigenalis is a very attractive parrot originating primarily from Northeast Mexico. Overall it is a darker green Amazon, though a paler green underneath, and has iridescent light green cheeks circled in lilac. Its other descriptive names, Red-crowned Amazon and Mexican Red-headed Parrot, are derived from its vibrant crown of bright scarlet.

   The Green-cheek Amazon is definitely a more amenable Amazon. It is a pleasant, social Amazon that enjoys its human companions and is not as independent nor as feisty as its cousins. Once in a while it will assert its independence, and when it does it will be obvious. The pupils of their eyes will constrict and light up like little flashlights, this is referred to as the "blazing eye". Its head will come down, the tail feathers will fan out and the wings will extend. This is the Green-cheek Amazons way of saying "just leave me alone", and this usually occurs in breeding season.

   This is a favorite among bird lovers for its calm but playful nature. These Red-crowned Amazons loved to have the top of their head and the sides of their face petted, and will frequently just lay their head down for you to provide them with this attention. Some of them are talkers, but most are better at mimicking sounds.

   Green-Cheeked Amazons travel in large flocks in the wild. They are very gregarious, and require regular involvement in the routine of their human flock. Keepers will need to make some adjustments when they add an intelligent creature like this to their home as these parrots will become depressed if neglected. They need to be included. With this pet bird you have a companion for meals or watching television, yes, they do watch television.

For more information about Amazon Birds see:
Amazon Parrot: Information and Care

Geographic Distribution Amazona viridigenalis Data provided by GBIF.org Scientific Classification Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Aves Order: Psittaciformes Family: Psittacidae

Scientific name    Amazona viridigenalis

Distribution    The Green-Cheeked Amazon Amazona viridigenalis was first described by Cassin in 1853. It is also known as the Red-crowned Amazon and Mexican Red-headed Parrot. It is native to the lowlands of Northeast Mexico, and has been introduced into Puerto Rico and the United States. There are feral flocks surviving quite well in California, Florida and Texas.

   In the wild they live in large flocks of between twenty to over a hundred birds which are quite conspicuous and noisy. They inhabit forests and wooded areas in lush lowlands and foothills. There they feed on fruits, berries, seeds, nuts, and the blossoms and leafy buds of foliage. They are said to rather wasteful, taking just a bite of a piece of fruit and then letting the rest fall to the ground.

Status   The Amazona viridigenalis is on the IUCN Red List for Endangered Species as Endangered (EN).

Description   The Green-cheeked Amazon is primarily a darker green color with paler green and more yellow on the under parts. The feathers are edged in a dusky black, particularly on the neck. The color of the crown is a bright scarlet with the bases of those feathers edged in yellow. There is a violet blue band going from the eyes down. The checks are an iridescent light green and there is a lilac coloring behind the eyes. There are colors of violet blue and red on the wings.

   This is an attractive amazon and its coloring is reflected in the name Green-cheeked as well as its other common names, Red-crowned Amazon and Mexican Red-headed Parrot. For some reason the Green Cheek appears to be a little smaller than many of the other amazons, however, they measure about the same in length as the other mid-sized Amazons. Mature birds are about 13 inches (33 cm) long from the head to the tip of the tail. They are sexually mature at around 5 years old and have a life span of several decades.

Care and feeding    In the wild, the diet of the Green-cheeked Amazon consists of fruits, plants, seeds and nuts, but will frequently take a bite of something and then just toss the rest. When food is plentiful they are known to waste, just looking for something they like better. Of course, during breeding season, everything is eaten and used. A pet bird will enjoy a varied diet, including a quality seed mix or a pelleted diet, and many fresh fruits and vegetables. Pellets will work if started at an early age. Plenty of human food that is nutritious can be offered.

   Fruits and vegetables are great but a little chicken or meatloaf is good too. Sweet potatoes provide Vitamin A. Peanut butter or honey at the bottom of a Dixie cup or on a cracker brings them happiness. It will also bring you laughter. Amazons also love pasta but can make a real mess with spaghetti and sauce. They like to eat at the table and enjoy eating with their family. They will let you know when it's dinner time. Avocado and chocolate are toxic to any parrot.

Housing   A roomy cage is needed for the Mexican Red-headed Parrot. Amazon parrot cages must not be too confining, so get one that your pet will be able to feel comfortable in. It is their territory and their safe place.This parrot likes to climb and play, and enjoys expanding its wings. It is recommended that a cage be 2 x 3 feet wide and between 2 1/2 to 5 feet high, preferably with a play pen top. Red-crowned Amazons also like to climb so a hanging perch above its cage is a wonderful addition for your friend.

   These Amazons can tolerate varying temperatures, but they need to be kept away from any drafts. They love to be out of their cage on a playpen, and will enjoy interacting with their human as well as playing with toys. A variety of perches should be used of varying size and texture. A rougher textured perch instead of the smooth, doll-rod types, makes it easier for them to perch and is better for their feet and legs. A concrete perch can be placed as the highest perch in the cage and next to a toy. At times during the day they will perch there and it will save them (and you) from the ordeal of having their nails filed.

  Don't forget bathing.  Spraying your amazon with warm water or a commercially available bird bath is necessary to keep the feathers from drying out.  .

Maintenance   The basic cage care includes daily cleaning of the water and food dishes. Weekly you should wash all the perches and dirty toys, and the floor should be washed about every other week. A total hosing down and disinfecting of an aviary should be done yearly, replacing anything that needs to be freshened, such as old dishes, toys and perches.

"Chico" Green-cheeked Amazon Photo © Animal-World:
Courtesy David Brough

Social Behaviors   In the wild, Green-cheeked Amazons gather in large flocks from twenty to a hundred individuals. Pairs are not necessarily discernable. The flock remains active throughout most of the day and takes a rest if necessary in the treetops. Their flight is in a compact formation. They are found in pairs or in colonies.

   These parrots enjoy human interaction as well as interaction with other birds. They like to be greeted when you come into the room. They like to eat at the table and will let you know when it's dinner time. They are quite content and comfortable to be on a perch and in the company of its humans. Whether watching TV or eating dinner, the Green-cheeked Amazon wants to be with you. A greater attachment also develops between you and your feathered friend the more you are together.

Handling/Training   The Green-cheeked Amazon quickly becomes accustomed to a new environment and its keeper, and is then ready to start bird training. Generally though, you should give a new arrival a few days to get use to you, your voice and its cage before trying to handle it. A hand fed baby will not need much taming and can often be handled right away, as it is use to human attention.

   For information about training your Green-cheeked Amazon see: Amazon Parrot Care: Handling and Training

Activities  The Green-cheeked Amazon is a more contented amazon and will just enjoy being around you. He likes plenty of toys, wants new toys, and will play with his toys.  A perch made available to him so he can watch TV with you and eat dinner with you is wonderful.

Sexing - Sexual Differences   It is said that the males have larger areas of color in the scarlet and lilac on their heads but the only way to be certain of the sex is through sexing the bird. If gender identification is important (for example for breeding birds) DNA / Feather or surgical sexing is recommended.

Breeding/Reproduction   The Green-cheeked or Red-crowned Amazons have been breeding successfully in captivity since the 1970's. They are sexually mature at around 5 years old, but the sexes must be confirmed and the pair must be harmonious, bonded with each other. They will need a nest box that is 31"-39" (80-100 cm) high with an inside diameter of 12"-14" (30-35 cm) and an opening of 4"-5" (10-12 cm). Provide some soft bedding material inside on the bottom of the box.

   The hen will lay two to four eggs (sometimes 5) which she will incubate for about 29 days. The young will leave the nest at proximately 9 weeks old. In some cases the female will not feed all the chicks so a breeder will be feeding some from day one.

Potential Problems    Most birds will call out to other members of the flock first thing in the morning. They call out again right before sunset. This is their good morning and their alert that night is coming. The Green-cheeked Amazons are no exception to this. They will make noise first thing in the morning and right before the sun goes down.

   "Sometimes they will even let you know about 15 minutes before a major storm comes in. That is the nature of an amazon and many other birds. It is just something you adjust to. The alert cries and squawks last about 10 minutes. One time I yelled back at my Panama Amazon to "SHUT UP" and he just yelled back "NO"!"... Cheryl Galloway.

   A Green-cheeked Amazon when well cared for will seldom become ill. Though it is often difficult to determine illness, some visible signs of illness to be aware of are:

• ruffled plumage
• listlessness
• drooping wings
• sagging body
• extreme mood changes
• having no appetite
• bulges in feathering
• partially closed or watery eyes
• swelling of the eyelids
• rasping
• difficulty breathing
• excessive saliva
• dirty vent
• any change in the feces not apparently diet related.

   Some of the more common illnesses are:

• Psittacosis (chlamydiosis or parrot fever)
• bacterial, viral, or fungal infections
• feather picking (results of boredom, poor diet, sexual frustration, lack of bathing)
• allergies
• chewing flight and tail feathers by juveniles
• beak malformations in chicks
• Papillomas
• kidney disease (gout)
• toxicity
• heavy metal poisoning
• lipomas in older birds.

   If you notice any of these bird illnesses in your Green-cheeked Amazon, immediately provide a warm, draft free, secure environment kept at about 86°F (30°C). Place food and water close to the perch where it is easily accessible. An ailing parrot should be taken to a avian veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.

Availability   The Green-cheeked or Red-crowned Amazon is readily available and it should be easy to find one in a pet store or from breeders in your area. They are not as expensive as most of the other amazons, probably because they do not speak as well. However, their affectionate nature certainly makes up for that.

References

• Animal-World References: Pet Birds - Exotic Birds
• Dr. David Alderton, The Atlas of Parrots of the World, T.F.H. Publications, Inc. 1991
• David Alderton, Parrots, Salamander Books, 1999
• David Alderton,, A Bird Keeper's Guide to Parrots and Macaws, Salamander Books, 1989
• Arthur Freud, All About The Parrots, Howell Book House, 1986
• Werner and Susanne Lantermann, Amazon Parrots, Barron's Educational Series, Inc. 1988
• The Mexican Red-Headed Amazon, The Real Macaw Parrot Club
• The Green Cheeked Amazon, Southeast Texas Avian Rescue, Copyright 2004

Author: Cheryl Galloway, Clarice Brough CAS

Lastest Comments on Green-cheeked Amazon View all 25 comments on Green-cheeked Amazon Add Your Comment

Phil Berry - 2009-02-12 Our Green Cheeked Amazon (Mexican Red Head) is a female named Lolita. I found her in a tree after a hurricane in 1995. She came to me immediately. I had no cage and no experience, but since she was banded, I thought it would be no problem at all to find her owner. DUH! The band contains breeder-specific information only. Suddenly I was owned by a Parrot. I bought books (pre-internet) and asked questions. I am fortunate enough to know a couple who own a pet store and specialize in large birds. They have always been a great help. Fast forward some 13 years + and we are still a happy flock. She loves her "Momma," who does nothing to maintain her save fixing her breakfast, while I get a whistle, although a special one. Over the years she has won five awards, including most social bird, at the Cinco de Mayo celebrations in May. Everyone loves her ----- except my three children, six grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. Today is my 70th birthday. Do the math and you will see I am entering the desperate age. Someone who will love her and give her a good home has to appear on the horizon soon. Oh, she has a hatch date (we think) of December, 1993, making her 15 +. She has 40 to 60 years ahead of her yet. We are keeping this in mind, but until necessary she is our baby. She insists we sit with her every night from about 6 to 8 PM for her "flock hour." Click For Replies (2) Rose Marie - 2010-07-05 We have a Mexican Red head, we think its a boy, his name is Marvin, he's about 7 yrs. I know what you mean by getting attached, We have spent about $4,000.00 on him when he got sick. He has been from California to Mo., Mt.Rushmore, Grand Canyons, Utah, red woods, sitting on my husbands shoulder. He says, Hello, want an apple,whistles a tone and can give a wolf call, and a lot more. IF you need someone, give us a call Marie - 2010-12-21 I am curious, have you find a nice home for your bird? I do have one and I love that bird. Reply

Penny - 2008-08-03 I just lost my Green Cheeked Amazon, Polly after being owned by him for 24 years....He was 51 as far as I know. He was supposed to be 26 when we got him. I am still in major grief mode as you can imagine. I don't know how I will fill the void. I do not plan to get another bird as I'm in my 60's and would not want to leave the bird behind. It's very nice to read comments about all you people who have parrots and love them well as I did my Polly. He died peacefully in my loving hands. Just wanted to share with someone. Penny Valier, Mt. Click For Replies (1) Mark - 2010-10-09 I have a green cheeked Amazon named Chloe and he is 15 years old. I bought him from a pet store when he was still being hand fed. Chloe was raised on a Kaytee pelleted diet. When I get food for him and start to bring him food he was say "go ahead" as if approving. He coughs when someone coughs and says " hurry up get your clothes on the bus is ready "quite a bit. He also likes to call out random names of people. With eyes flaring he will often reach out to try and bite strangers that visit all the while laughing at every attempt. He has been a very good pet and as far as amazon parrots go hes Id say better behaved and somewhat quieter than some Ive had. Hes very protective of me and acts like a guard dog against any else that comes near me when he is out of his cage. At 15 he is well feathered and healthy and still talks and chatters quite a bit. However I would say hes toned it down a bit not quite the chatterbox he was when he was 5. Hes been a very good pet and I will never part with him although I would have liked to have gotten him a mate by now I'm not so sure he would handle that as well he would have years ago. Chloe is one of a kind for sure.. always watching me to see what I'm going to say or do as if he already knows. I tell him everyday that I love him and he watches and listens and moves closer to me. Thank you to all for your stories of your pet birds that inclined me to say something myself. Reply

Barb, IA - 2009-02-02 We have had Oliver, a (Green Cheek) Red Headed Amazon for 40 years. Oliver was purchased at a dimestore by my mother as a birthday present for my dad. Little did we know that we would still have him today! Ollie outlived dad, four dogs and a cat. He dearly loves my mother and will say hello to her immediately. Oliver also loves my husband and bonded with him years ago when we visited my parents, so it came as no surprise that when we took mom and Oliver home to live with us, Ollie started singing and whistling with my husband as loud or high pitched as he could to show he was his buddy. As a matter of fact, my husband is the only one that can open up the cage and play with his feathers without getting bit. I can only pet his head when we are alone but I don't dare open the cage and put my hand in there. He has forgotten some things he used to say as a young bird but has introduced new sounds instead. He used to sing the birthday song but now only one line of it. He can vocalize arpeggios but only going up the scale, says, "Hello there", "Hi Oll",("Bye bye"- When we grab our keys or put our coat on), makes a drinking sound, seeds sound going into his cup, silverware scratching on plate sound, a special sound my dad taught him to make when we ask him if he likes what we put in his cup- his eyes also turn bright orange when he shows he likes something too.He can say "night-night" but used to say "night, night, turn out the light" so he has actually shortened his word phrases. He loves oatmeal with milk, fresh or cooked green beans-so he can take out the seeds, corn on the cob, potatoes and butter, chicken leg bones to tear apart, orange and apple slices, raspberries, carrots to tear apart, most nuts. He loves to hold walnuts and pecans in his claw. Big striped sunflower seeds are a necessity everyday. His eyes are always watching you even if he is resting, he doesn't miss a meal or a snack because he knows when the cabinet opens that's where the nuts are! I try to feed him first because he will scream till he gets fed or if we cover him up he will still yell. He gets put in the back bedroom when he can't be quiet when we have alot of company. Oliver loves a good argument. If I raise my voice to talk he does too. If my husband and I are having a conversation he joins in too. If I whisper he talks softly like a little bird cooing. He used to come out of the cage and stand on top but now is afraid to come out even if the door is open. He says "hello there" to strange cats and dogs that come to visit. I think he's really frightened but showing he's the boss. When I vacuum he takes a bath in his water cup so I put fresh warm water in there before I begin when I remember to do so. We cover him on three sides to keep him warm all year round and I make a tent for him when he takes naps. At night he get covered completely and by blankets if its cold. We move the cage around the house so he can be with me or mom during the day. He is afraid of being left by a window or door. I think he's afraid of other birds flying by. But if my husband is outside he loves to watch him. Talk about high maintenance! I know we are programmed by this bird but we're used to it!!! We wouldn't trade him for anything in the world. Click For Replies (2) Heather - Michigan - 2010-07-11 You're not alone Barb our Jewels is the same way except he is the king of the castle here at our home if the cats act up he will swoop down at them and peck them on the head or if my kids argue with me he starts in to get his two sense in. He loves to take showers with my husband and like yours allows him to do whatever he wants to him but only allows me to touch his head. He loves to talk and if we are in another room he will start to yell all our names on after another until he gets someones attention he will even call the dog. kamyab - 2010-08-15 I have an orange winged amazon he is going to be 2 years old soon. We bought him at a pet shop when I went to buy a african grey but (ow) the amazon was so cute and quit sitting at the back of it's cage that i bought her she is very nice let's me pet her most places except from the leg and the wrist band on her leg is getting tight wat do i do? Reply

C. Strals - 2009-11-23 We have a Green cheek amazon, his name is Jo-Jo, atleast we think he's male. We got him when he was almost six and now its sixteen years later. He's a great talker, although he used to mimic more when we first got him. He just loves to talk on the phone which is hilarious. He's a part of the family now. We used to have a friend for him but she flew away when we first got them. He grew up with my children and we love him. Reply

BJ - 2009-08-24 For Lolita's Mom -- we would certainly be interested in caring for your bird when the time comes. We have a red-headed Amazon and obtained him in much the same way you did... email us at BJZotter@aol.com -- we live in the Kansas City area. We have many other birds we have adopted as well. Thanks, BJ & Tom Reply

Misty Pollard - 2008-05-03 My boyfriend and I have a Mexican Red Head parrot. His name is Chico. He is a very loving bird to myself. But when it comes to my boyfriend, Chico will allow him to pick him up but then quickly flies back to his cage. However when I pick Chico up he will let me pet him on his back, pokes holes in my shirt with his beak, groom me by running his beak through my hair, and climbs up to my shoulder. He says, "What?" which I think he gets from me asking him, "what are you doing?" Chico also coos like a dove and chatters like he is trying to say something but it isn't legible. We got Chico from a couple that never had time to spend with him. They kept him locked in his cage and wouldn't let him on their shoulder. When We brought Chico home he was very shy at first and ran away when we tried to pick him up. Now he loves to perch and sleep on top of his cage. I never close him up unless he gets into one of his flying moods or we have alot of people over. When I come home from work and don't greet him he will let me know he wants attention by flying to thw kitchen window or flying into my bedroom. He is like a different bird than when we first got him. We have had him for a year now, he is around four years old. We love him very much and look forward to being with him for many more years. Origionally Chico was suspose to be my boyfriends bird but has bonded with me instead. Reply

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