Amazon parrots are vibrant, intelligent, and often bold birds that have captivated parrot enthusiasts for generations. Known for their playful personalities, strong voices, and impressive speaking abilities, Amazon parrots can make wonderful companions for those who are prepared to meet their unique needs. However, they are not low-maintenance pets and require significant time, commitment, and understanding. This guide provides an in-depth look at what it takes to care for an Amazon parrot and helps you decide if this charismatic bird is the right pet for you.

Overview: Types of Amazon Parrots

There are over 30 species of Amazon parrots, with some of the most popular being the Yellow-Naped Amazon, Blue-Fronted Amazon, Double Yellow-Headed Amazon, and Orange-Winged Amazon. While each species has its own unique characteristics, all Amazon parrots share similar care needs and behaviours.

- Yellow-Naped Amazon: Known for their excellent talking ability and bold personality, Yellow-Naped Amazons are among the most popular of the Amazon species. They are medium-sized parrots with bright green plumage and a distinctive yellow patch on the back of their necks.

- Blue-Fronted Amazon: Recognisable by the blue feathers on their foreheads, Blue-Fronted Amazons are playful, social, and often very vocal. They are known for their outgoing nature and can become strongly attached to their owners.

- Double Yellow-Headed Amazon: This species is famous for its talking ability and is often considered one of the best mimicry parrots. They have vibrant green bodies with a bright yellow head and are known for their friendly and social temperament.

- Orange-Winged Amazon: Slightly more reserved than some of the other Amazon species, Orange-Winged Amazons are still highly social and can be excellent companions when given the right care.

Size and Lifespan of Amazon Parrots

Amazon parrots are medium to large-sized birds, typically measuring between 12 to 15 inches in length and weighing between 400 to 600 grams, depending on the species. These parrots have a long lifespan, often living 40 to 60 years in captivity, and with excellent care, some can live even longer. Their size and long lifespan make them a significant commitment that potential owners must be prepared for.

Socialisation Needs and Time Commitment

Amazon parrots are highly social birds that thrive on interaction and companionship. In the wild, they live in huge flocks and form strong bonds with other birds. As pets, they require a significant amount of social interaction with their owners, or their own species, to stay mentally and emotionally healthy.

- Time Commitment: Amazon parrots need at least 3 to 4 hours of social interaction and out-of-cage time each day. They enjoy being part of the family activities and often want to be included in everything that goes on in their environment.

- Need for Companionship: These parrots do best when they have plenty of mental stimulation and social interaction. While a few Amazons may do well as solo birds, many benefit from having a cage mate or plenty of social time with their human flock.

- Binge Left Alone: Amazon parrots do not do well when left alone for extended periods. Loneliness and boredom can lead to behavioural issues such as screaming, feather plucking, and aggression. They need consistent engagement to stay happy and healthy.

Noise Levels

Amazon parrots are known for their vocal abilities, and they are not quiet birds. They can be excellent talkers and may learn a wide variety of words, phrases, and sounds. However, they can also be quite loud, especially during sun rise and sunset.

- Vocalisation: Amazons are not shy about expressing themselves, and they can be loud when they feel excited, happy, or frustrated. They tend to vocalise in the mornings and evenings, and their calls can be heard from a considerable distance.

- Noise Tolerance: These birds are best suited for homes where noise is not an issue, as their vocalisations can be disruptive, particularly in apartments or homes with noise-sensitive neighbours.

Costs of Owning an Amazon Parrot

The financial commitment of owning an Amazon parrot is significant, and it’s important to be prepared for the ongoing costs associated with their care.

- Cost to Purchase: Depending on the species and where you purchase them, Amazon parrots typically range from £800 to £2,000. Factors such as age, health, and breeding can also affect the price.

- Setup Costs: Initial setup costs, including a large cage / aviary, perches, toys, food dishes, and other essentials, can cost between £1000 to £1,500. Investing in a spacious cage is crucial, as Amazons need room to move, play, and spread their wings.

- Ongoing Costs: Monthly expenses for high-quality fresh and dried food, toys, and other supplies typically range from £50 to £100. These costs can vary depending on the quality of the products and how frequently toys need to be replaced.

- Veterinary Costs: Routine avian veterinary care is essential for Amazon parrots. Annual check-ups can be expensive, often ranging from £50 to £150 per visit at a minimum, and in excess of £1000 for a sick or injured Amazon. It’s important to budget for unexpected medical expenses.

Intelligence and Enrichment Needs

Amazon parrots are highly intelligent and require a stimulating environment to thrive. They are curious, playful, and love to solve problems, which means they need a variety of enrichment activities to keep them mentally engaged.

- Enrichment Requirements: These birds need a wide range of toys, including foraging toys, puzzles, and shreddable items. Regular rotation of toys and introducing new challenges helps keep their minds active.

- Training Requirements: Positive reinforcement training is crucial for Amazon parrots. They respond well to training sessions that keep them mentally stimulated and engaged. Training not only reinforces the bond between the parrot and the owner but also helps manage behaviours such as excessive screaming or biting.

Dietary Needs of Amazon Parrots

Amazon parrots require a varied diet that includes fresh vegetables, fruits, high-quality pellets, and a small amount of nuts and seeds. Their diet should be rich in nutrients to support their vibrant plumage, energy levels, and overall health.

- Daily Fresh Food: Offer fresh vegetables such as leafy greens, carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli daily. Fruits can be given in moderation, with favourites often including apples, berries, and mango.

- Avoid High-Fat Diets: Amazons are prone to obesity, especially if fed a high-fat seed diet. Limit seeds and nuts to treats and focus on providing a balanced diet that mimics what they would eat in the wild.

Wing Clipping

Wing clipping is widely discouraged among avian professionals and parrot enthusiasts. Clipping an Amazon parrot’s wings can have detrimental effects on their physical and mental health, reducing their ability to fly, exercise, and express natural behaviours.

- Alternatives to Clipping: Instead of clipping, focus on training your parrot to fly safely indoors or within a secure environment. Recall training and creating safe flight zones are excellent ways to allow your Amazon parrot to enjoy their natural abilities without compromising safety. Amazon Parrots make excellent free fliers so this may be something to consider for the right person, and right bird.

- Flight Training for Exercise: Allowing your parrot to fly helps maintain muscle tone, supports cardiovascular health, and provides essential mental stimulation.

Toys, Enrichment, and Environmental Needs

Amazon parrots thrive in environments that provide plenty of mental and physical enrichment. A large cage with multiple perches, a variety of toys, and plenty of opportunities for out-of-cage time are essential.

- Toys: Offer a mix of toys, including those designed for foraging, shredding, and problem-solving. Amazons enjoy toys that challenge them and provide rewards, such as hidden treats.

- Cage Size: The cage should be at least one and a half times the width of the bird’s wingspan, but the larger, the better. An aviary setup is ideal, allowing for flight, climbing, and natural movement.

Amazon Parrot Temperament

Amazon parrots are known for their bold, outgoing, and often playful personalities. They are confident, curious, and enjoy being the centre of attention. However, they can also be strong-willed and occasionally moody, especially during hormonal periods. Amazons are typically affectionate with their chosen human companions, but they can be territorial and may display aggressive behaviours if not properly socialised or if their boundaries are not respected.

Amazons are highly intelligent and thrive on interaction and mental stimulation. They are natural performers and enjoy showing off, making them highly entertaining pets. However, their assertive nature means they need consistent training, firm boundaries, and plenty of positive reinforcement to maintain good behaviour. They are not shy about expressing their displeasure, and without proper management, they can develop behavioural issues like biting or excessive screaming. Overall, Amazons are best suited for confident and experienced bird owners who understand their unique temperament and are prepared to manage their strong personalities.

What Sort of Person Suits an Amazon Parrot?

Amazon parrots are best suited for individuals or families who have the time, patience, and experience to handle a high-energy and sometimes demanding bird. They are ideal for those who are willing to invest in training and enrichment to keep their bird mentally and physically stimulated.

Age and Experience: Amazons are not recommended for inexperienced bird owners due to their assertive nature and complex care needs. They are better suited for adults who have experience with parrots or other demanding pets. While they can be affectionate, they are not typically cuddly birds, so they may not be the best choice for families with young children.
Income and Financial Stability: Potential owners should have a stable income to cover the costs associated with owning an Amazon parrot, including high-quality food, toys, and regular veterinary care. Amazons can be prone to health issues, especially as they age, so it’s important to be financially prepared for unexpected vet bills.
Home Environment: Amazon parrots do best in a home where they can have their own space, free from excessive noise and stress. They can be vocal, so they are better suited for homes where noise is not a concern. Those living in apartments or shared spaces should consider their neighbours’ tolerance for noise before bringing an Amazon parrot home.
Family Set-Up and Daily Routine: Amazons thrive in homes where they are an active part of the family. They love to be involved in daily activities and enjoy interacting with their human flock. Owners who work from home, are retired (and adopt an older bird), or have a flexible schedule will find it easier to meet the social needs of an Amazon parrot. They are not suitable for individuals who are frequently away from home, as these birds require daily interaction and cannot be left alone for extended periods.
Health and Lifestyle Considerations: Owners should be in good health and physically capable of handling the demands of an Amazon parrot, including the ability to clean, feed, and engage in training and playtime. Given their long lifespan, potential owners should also consider their long-term ability to care for the bird, including plans for the parrot’s care in case of illness or life changes.

Amazon parrots are best suited for confident, dedicated owners who appreciate their lively personalities and are committed to providing a stimulating and enriched environment. With the right care and attention, Amazons can make delightful and engaging companions that bring joy and entertainment to any home. Oh, and never buy a parrot for your child!

Final Thoughts

Amazon parrots are lively, intelligent, and affectionate companions, but they are not suitable for every household. They require significant time, attention, and resources to meet their social, dietary, and environmental needs. Potential owners should carefully consider their ability to provide consistent interaction, financial support, and a stimulating environment before committing to an Amazon parrot. By understanding the responsibilities involved, you can make an informed decision that ensures both you and your future feathered companion enjoy a fulfilling, harmonious relationship.

Is an Amazon Parrot the Right Pet for Me?