One of the most charismatic and intelligent parrots in Central America — famous for its bright personality, impressive mimicry, and, of course, the bold yellow patch on the back of its neck that gives it its name. Native to the Pacific slopes of Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica, this medium-sized, mostly green amazon is instantly recognizable by its vivid yellow nape, sturdy black beak, and expressive eyes. It’s a social, vocal bird whose calls — loud, rolling cries and surprisingly human-like phrases — fill its forest habitats with sound.

In the wild, yellow-naped amazons inhabit dry forests, mangroves, savannas, and agricultural areas, often traveling in small, noisy flocks. They feed on a diverse mix of fruits, seeds, nuts, blossoms, and tender leaves, taking full advantage of seasonal food availability. Their powerful beaks can crack tough seeds, and their zygodactyl feet (two toes forward, two backward) let them climb and manipulate food with remarkable dexterity. As highly social parrots, they roost communally in large trees, creating a lively spectacle at dusk when dozens of birds gather, squawking and chattering as they settle in for the night.

Sadly, the yellow-naped amazon is now listed as Critically Endangered, and its decline has been shockingly rapid. The biggest threat is the illegal pet trade. Because the species is such an exceptional mimic and companion parrot, poachers often raid nests to collect chicks. In some regions, entire cohorts of wild-hatched young are taken each year, leaving forests silent where flocks once flourished. Deforestation also plays a major role, especially the loss of old trees with natural nesting cavities. Climate change, hurricanes, and genetic bottlenecking in isolated populations add to the challenges.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Belize

2021

Seasonality Uncertain

Costa Rica

2021

El Salvador

2021

Guatemala

2021

Honduras

2021

Mexico

2021

Nicaragua

2021