Yellow-naped Amazon
Amazona auropalliata
There is a high risk associated with keeping this species as a pet. This is not a suitable pet.
© Shutterstock
Assessment results
High risk
Conservation | High risk
This animal is threatened by extinction in the wild, and there is global demand which is creating potentially more unsustainable and illegal poaching of the species. By having it as a pet creates more demand for these animals, which can worsen their situation in the wild. Learn more about wildlife conservation and the pet trade.
Legality | Moderate risk
It’s likely that the animal has some national legal protections or import restrictions; however, exotic pet ownership is regulated at the state, county, or city level, so check your jurisdiction to see if you can own it. Keeping these protected or prohibited species can have legal consequences for the owner, including fines or bans on pet ownership or sale. Learn more about relevant exotic pet trade and ownership laws.
Human and public health | Moderate risk
It is likely that this animal is a potential threat to human or public health, either due to potential zoonotic diseases or due to physical attributes that can harm humans. Learn more about animal-related illness and injuries.
Invasiveness | Moderate risk
This species would not likely impact native biodiversity or habitats. However, never release a pet into the wild for any reason.
Animal welfare | High risk
Care, diet, and housing needs of this species are extremely difficult to meet for its lifetime, and potential owners are unlikely to be able to provide a good quality of life. Learn more about the challenges with exotic pet welfare.
⚠️ Important considerations
- Yellow-naped Amazon populations are declining in the wild and they are a critically endangered species, targeted for the illegal pet trade, among other threats. US laws regulate their trade as a result.
- Yellow-naped Amazon housing, diet, and social needs are hard to meet in captivity. They need hours of stimulation and social time outside of their cage each day, along with a rotating variety of toys, puzzles, perches, and space to fly. They commonly experience diseases such as atherosclerosis, heart disease, and liver disease related to poor diet and husbandry in captivity.
- As with all pet birds, ensure there is access to a veterinarian that specializes in birds and consult them about proper habitat set up, diet, and care. Find an avian vet near you.
Basic information
Taxonomy:
Psittaciformes, Psittacidae
Lifespan:
20-30 years in the wild, 60-80 years in captivity
Weight:
11-18 oz. (0.3-0.5 kg)
Size:
~14 in. (35.5 cm)
Native range and habitat:
Forests, thorn scrub, and mangroves of coastal areas in Southern Mexico and Central America
Diet:
Fruits, nuts, seeds, and flowers
Activity and behavior:
- Monogamous during the breeding season and live in pairs and small groups outside of the breeding season.
- Yellow-naped Amazons are strong fliers and fly out to forage early in the day, taking a nap at midday, and roosting in large groups in the evening.
© WWF-Japan