About Amazona albifrons (Sparrman, 1788)
Size
The white-fronted amazon (Amazona albifrons) is the smallest amazon parrot, reaching approximately 25 cm (9.8 in) in length.
Forehead Naming Origin
This species gets its name from the bright white patch of feathers on its forehead, though the amount of white present varies between individuals.
Main Plumage Coloration
Most of its plumage is green, with blue colouring on the outstretched wings.
Facial and Forehead Markings
It has bright red colouring around its eyes, which can resemble spectacles in some individuals, and blue colouring on the forehead just behind the white patch.
Sexual Dimorphism
Alongside the red-spectacled amazon and the yellow-lored amazon, this is the only amazon species where adult males and females can be easily distinguished by external appearance, a trait called sexual dimorphism: males have bright red feathers on their alula (often referred to as the shoulder), while females have green shoulder feathers.
Juvenile Traits
Juveniles have pale grey irises, less red colouring on their face, and a smaller yellowish area where adults have the white forehead patch.
Native Range and Flock Size
This parrot is native to Mexico and Central America, and is most often found in small flocks of up to 20 birds.
Habitat Range
It occupies a wide range of habitats, from wet environments like rainforests to drier areas like cactus savannahs.
Wild Temperament
In the wild, this species is not shy, and people can often approach individuals.
Flock Congregation Behavior
Flocks may congregate to form groups numbering in the hundreds, and these mixed groups can include flocks of other parrot species such as the red-lored amazon.
Introduced Texas Population
A population has been observed in southern Texas, which is likely made up of escaped captive birds.
Other Introduced Populations
A small feral population has also been seen living in southern California, and introduced breeding populations have been reported in Puerto Rico.
