White Fronted Amazon General Info
The diverse and large family of Amazon parrots is full of unique and lovely birds. The White fronted Amazon is one of the most attractive ones in this family, and a fantastic, entertaining pet. It’s also one of the smallest when compared to its closely related cousins. But what it lacks in size, it makes up with personality, affectionate nature, and endlessly fun behavior. With a relatively affordable price and an impressive intelligence, the White fronted Amazon could be a perfect choice for a new pet parrot.
White Fronted Amazons are the smallest in their family but have a great personality to make up for it.
Native Region/Natural Habitat
Their native habitat is shared with other tropical and Amazon parrots. It spans a region through most of Central America, with a considerable population in Mexico as well. This region spans Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Honduras. Mostly preferring to nest in tree holes, they are usually observed in dense grasslands and tropical forests, in flocks of around 20 birds. Although their numbers are stable, they are still threatened by illegal hunting and killing for food.
Overall Description
With adults reaching an average length of 10 inches (25 centimeters), they are officially the smallest Amazon parrots. But they still retain the classic physical traits of the species and aren’t that different at a first glance, with just a few key details that set them apart. They can weigh up to 8 ounces (240 grams) and have a robust, stocky build which signifies good health. As with most medium and large parrots, you’ll have to ensure a lot of free space for movement and exercise. This will keep them motivated and in high spirits, preventing lethargy and boredom, which is never a good thing for a pet parrot.
Speech and Sounds
Amazons are generally recognized as some of the best talkers in the parrot world. They are able to easily memorize up to 40 different words and common sounds and repeat them in their own distinct tone of voice. They are also noted singers, with certain pets learning entire songs with an incredible talent for intonation, melodies, and chords. Their natural calls are moderately loud and not heard too often. Nevertheless, these talkative parrots might not be the best choice for small apartments.
Colors
Most Amazon parrots are simply colored, each with their own unique details to set them apart. Same goes for the White Fronted Amazons. They are almost entirely green colored, with several lighter and darker tones on the body. Their distinct details are on the head – the top of the head has a bright blue patch, with a white one just below on the forehead, and followed by a bright red band around the eyes and just above the beak. This unique “tricolor” is an striking detail, with the red band resembling spectacles. This gives them a nickname – the spectacled amazon parrot. However, their simple coloration leaves a bit to be desired, but they can still be a charming and pretty parrot.
A unique cluster of details on the head is a fantastic and rarely seen detail.
Care and Feeding
In the wild, these parrots enjoy a variety of seeds, nuts, insects and tropical fruits. To find a perfect diet for your pet, you can begin with a seed based mix that is designed just for Amazons. This is carefully prepared to fit the dietary needs of your pet. But you’ll need a regular addition of fresh fruits and vegetables. This can work as a little pet treat but is actually an important source of vitamins that can’t be found in other food sources.
Health and Common Conditions
Amazon parrots are robustly built and hardy birds. Not a lot of troubles happen with Amazons, but you’ll want to prevent potential issues by providing them with care and attention. Regular exercise, baths, social interaction and a balanced diet are all part of a proper care. They are also world famous for their long lifespan. The White Fronted Amazon can live for more than 50 years, making them great companion parrots.
These can be great companion parrots. With a considerable lifespan, your friend will be a part of your life for a long time.
Personality & Behavior
These big and intelligent parrots make wonderful family pets. Whether it’s their talkative nature or the energetic need for fun, your Amazon parrot will always have you entertained – but never annoyed. With a natural knack for memorizing and repeating complex sentences or even entire songs, you can count on always hearing a new “anecdote” or a fresh melody. However you look at it, White Fronted Amazon is affectionate, lovable and fun to be around.
Photo credit: Nathalie Speliers Ufermann/Shutterstock; Maciej Czekajewski/Shutterstock
