Lilac-Crowned Amazon

Amazona finschi

The lilac-crowned amazon (Amazona finschi), also called Finsch's amazon, is a medium-sized green parrot native to the Pacific slope of western Mexico. It is recognized by a maroon-red forehead, a violet-lilac wash over the crown and nape, green cheeks, and a sturdy pale bill. Like other Amazon parrots, it has a compact body, short square tail, and a loud carrying voice. Wild birds use dry tropical forest, wooded foothills, pine-oak edges, and some cultivated areas, feeding on seeds, fruits, buds, and blossoms in pairs or small flocks.

In captivity, this is a specialist parrot rather than a casual cage bird. Captive-bred lilac-crowned amazons need a large secure enclosure, daily social contact, chewable wood, foraging work, and a diet built around quality pellets, vegetables, greens, and measured seed or nuts. They can become hormonal or territorial around nest sites, so handling and breeding plans matter. Because wild populations have been reduced by habitat loss and trapping, buyers should look for closed-ringed or otherwise documented birds and follow local and international wildlife rules. Breeders usually pair compatible adults in roomy aviaries with deep nest boxes and keep young birds well socialized before placement.