
Orange-winged Amazon (also known as the Orange-winged Parrot)
Kingdom: Animalia; Phylum: Chordata; Class: Aves; Order: Psittaciformes; Family: Psittacidae; Genus: Amazona; Species: Amazona amazonica
Family: Psittacidae (True Parrots)
- Shape
- Slightly asymmetrical vane with a rounded tip; broad and elongated with a subtle taper toward the base
- Size
- Estimated 4-6 inches in length. This is consistent with the secondary feathers of a medium-sized Amazon parrot (11-13 inches bird length).
- Rarity
- Common (Abundant within its native range; regularly encountered in aviculture and urban parrot colonies).
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Description
A medium-sized green parrot roughly 13 inches long. It features blue and yellow on the head with distinctive orange patches in the wings and tail which are visible in flight. They are vocal and social birds.
Colour & Pattern
Brilliant saturated orange on the outer vane transitioning to a slightly darker or greenish charcoal base; the orange is a carotenoid-based pigment characteristic of the Amazona genus.
Barb Structure
Tightly interlocked pennaceous barbs on the distal two-thirds; plumulaceous (downy) structure at the base for insulation
Texture & Surface
Smooth, glossy, and slightly waxy; the pennaceous portion is stiff and provides lift, while the surface reflects a healthy satin sheen.
Key Features
The specific hue of 'safety orange' concentrated on one side of the vane (outer web) is a diagnostic trait for the orange-winged speculum area of this species.
Habitat
Tropical and subtropical regions, including gallery forests, mangroves, savannas, and more recently, suburban parks with fruiting trees.
Geographic Range
Native to South America (Colombia, Venezuela, Guianas, Brazil). Naturalized exotic populations exist in Miami and parts of Southern California and Europe.
Ecological Role
Seed predator and disperser; they play a vital role in tropical forest regeneration by consuming fruits and spreading seeds over wide areas.
Similar Species
Turquoise-fronted Amazon (blue on head, red in wings), Red-lored Amazon (red forehead). Distinguishable by the orange vs. red speculum patch.
Interesting Facts
The orange color in their feathers comes from pigments called psittacofulvins, which are unique to parrots and are not found in any other bird families.
Condition Notes
Excellent condition. The barbs are perfectly zipped (not separated), indicating it was likely freshly molted rather than pulled or damaged by a predator.