How Long Do Yellow-Headed Amazon Birds Live?

The yellow-headed Amazon (Amazona oratrix) is a mostly green bird that comes from Mexico, Guatemala and Belize. These peppy and vigorous parrots are common household pets, with temperaments that are almost as bright as their feathers. Similarly to many other kinds of birds, yellow-headed Amazons can have relatively long lifespans.

  1. Background Information

    • Yellow-headed Amazons -- also called yellow-headed parrots or double yellow-headed Amazons -- are so named because the backs of their necks and heads are bright yellow. Otherwise, most of their plumage is green. These sizable parrots generally grow approximately 14 or 15 inches long and weigh a maximum of 18 ounces. Yellow-headed amazons usually have cheery, conversational, histrionic and energetic temperaments. Not only are they usually talented talkers, they also can often add tricks to their repertory.

    Life Expectancy

    • Owners of yellow-headed Amazons can rejoice in the fact that these parrots often have longevity on their sides. The life expectancy for the species is about 50 years. If you have one of these birdies in your home, you may enjoy the chance to grow old together -- aww.

    Health

    • With patience and some effort, owners can do all that is possible to ensure the longevity of their yellow-headed Amazons. Regular avian veterinary care is one way in which to do this. It's important for these birds to visit avian vets for examinations at least once a year. If signs of illness are apparent, urgent veterinary attention is necessary -- don't wait for the next regular visit. Remember, birds have the tendency to conceal their illnesses from others for long periods of time. If you notice symptoms, don't wait around. Some typical signs to look for include gait problems, bloody stools, lethargy, decreased appetite, weight loss, red eyes and ragged feathers.

    Diet

    • A nutritionally balanced diet can help keep a yellow-headed Amazon healthy and happy for as long as possible. These birds are often vulnerable to excess body weight, so they do well on diets that don't have high amounts of fat. Commercial parrot pellets make strong and suitable centerpieces for their diets. If you have any questions regarding specific pellet products, talk to an avian veterinarian. Outside of pellets, Amazons also appreciate regular portions of fresh vegetables and fruits -- namely beets, carrots, spinach, bananas, grapes, papayas, broccoli, mangoes and cantaloupes, among others.