Lilac Crowned Amazon General Info

Considered as one of the smallest of the Amazons, the Lilac Crowned parrots are also one of the liveliest and energetic in this family. Like all of their close cousins, these parrots are one of the best pets you can wish for! Energetic, fun, affectionate and good talkers as well, the Amazon parrots are more than pets – they are lifelong friends and companions. Even though they are quite an endangered species in the wild, the Lilac Crowned Amazon is still a popular and sought-after pet.

These Amazon parrots are more than great pets. They are friends, companions, and family members.

Native Region/Natural Habitat

The natural habitat of these parrots is found in western Mexico, in a region on the Pacific coast. They are seen nesting in woodland, open plains and plantations as well. Sadly, they are one of the critically threatened parrots, with numbers rapidly declining. They are considered an endangered species, mostly due to increasing loss of natural habitat, and critical measures are implemented for their survival. Even so, in captivity, it is not particularly difficult to get a Lilac Crowned Amazon, thanks to the efforts of avian breeders.

Overall Description

Even though they are considered as one of the smaller birds in the Amazon parrot family, they are actually medium-sized in comparison to other pet birds. The adults reach an average length of 13 to 14 inches (33 to 35 centimeters), and they retain most of the physical similarities with other Amazons. The distinct beak, the prominent forehead, and a squared-off tail are all there. Keep in mind that males and females are identical, so you won’t be able to tell them apart easily.

Speech and Sounds

As time passes and your pet spends more time around people, he will pick up a couple of words. After all, the Amazons are primarily known as fantastic talkers. The Lilac Crowned Amazon is much more docile though, so talking won’t be his primary concern. They do have loud natural calls, but these are not often heard. Mostly when something’s wrong, or strangers are in the house. They are very intelligent, but the speaking abilities might vary from bird to bird. In any case, a small vocabulary is a natural and guaranteed behavior.

Colors

With their vivid and bright color combinations, the Amazon parrots exude a breath of exotic and tropical regions of their native habitat. The Lilac Crowned parrots are mostly bright green, with the ruffled feathers characteristic of Amazons. There are a few unique and distinguishing details that set them apart, though. The neck and the back of the head are light blue, while the forehead is strikingly purple, giving them their common name. There are also a few yellow undertones, mainly seen under the wings and on the tail. These combinations are certain to leave an impression. These are some beautiful birds!

The Lilac Crowned Amazon is similar to its close cousins, with a few unique details that make it a stunningly pretty parrot.

Care and Feeding

In the wild, these endangered parrots thrive on a careful selection of fruits, seeds, nuts and agricultural crops. As a pet, this diet is best simulated by commercial seed mixes that are varied and contain all the necessary nutrients. To balance their diet, give your Amazon a regular dose of fresh fruits and vegetables. Another essential part of their care is bathing. Either take them to the shower with you, let them bathe in the sink or offer them a bathing dish of their own. They will love it, and it will work as important prevention of feather borne diseases.

Health and Common Conditions

There’s no doubt that these robust parrots have a hardy and robust nature. They are known for adapting easily to most common living conditions. One of the primary threats to their health is extreme cold which they don’t react to very well. So make sure everything is at an optimal temperature during the winter months. If you observe some threatening symptoms like apathy, loss of appetite, loss of feathers or difficult breathing, contact your vet. But sickness rarely develops with these birds. With enough care and attention, they will happily reach their long lifespan of 60 years.

These parrots can become good friends and lifelong companions, thanks to their impressive lifespan of 60 years.

Personality & Behavior

Lilac Crowned Amazon has a greater tendency to bond with an owner compared to some of the other Amazons. They are also more docile and affectionate as well. With this great combination of fun personality, sweet nature, and the stunning looks, the Lilac Crowned Amazon makes a fantastic pet. Provide your bird with basic care and rich social interaction, and you will quickly develop a deep bond and a lasting friendship with your feathered companion.

Photo credit: Glass and Nature/Shutterstock; loflo69/Shutterstock