Size:  Large, 13 inches

Native Region:  Mexico

Life Expectancy:  50 years

Noise Level:  Moderate

Talk/Trick Ability:  Fair

  The lilac-crowned Amazon has all the typical spunk of a large Amazon, but with a slightly quieter voice and endless devotion to its favorite person. Lilac crowns are smaller than other Amazons, but what it lacks in size, it makes up in personality. Lilac-crowned Amazons also tend to be less vocal than other Amazons. Male lilac crowns tend to be more gregarious and are known for being macho, flaring their tail and pinning their eyes as they strut the notorious Amazon strut. Females can be clingy, girly and demonstrate nesting instincts, according to Diana Holloway, former president of the Amazona Society.

  Lilac-crowned Amazons love to eat, so owners must watch the portions fed. Most Amazons also have the tendency for obesity. Vary their diets with fruits, vegetables and pellets. They are also susceptible to vitamin-A and calcium deficiencies and upper respiratory infections. Larger cages are optimal for lilac-crowned Amazons, so they have room to move and climb around, play with toys and exercise