The Amazon Parrot: The Underrated Star of the Parrot World

Author : Mo's Birds Mo's Birds | Published On : 01 Sep 2026

African greys get the headlines for intelligence and macaws get them for drama, but ask longtime bird keepers about their favorite companion and a surprising number will say Amazon. These stocky, green, endlessly entertaining parrots are among the best talkers and biggest personalities you can bring home — and they're often overlooked by first-time buyers dazzled by flashier species.

Here's why the Amazon deserves a closer look.

Personality by the Bucketload

Amazons are extroverts. They're bold, funny, opinionated, and love to be the center of attention. Many will sing, dance, and perform for a crowd. Where an African grey can be reserved and cautious, an Amazon tends to be confident and outgoing — a bird that greets guests rather than hiding from them.

That confidence is a huge part of the appeal, but it also means Amazons need owners who can set gentle boundaries. A spoiled Amazon can become pushy. A well-handled one is a delight.

Among the Best Talkers Alive

Amazon parrots are exceptional vocalists. Certain species — the yellow-naped Amazon in particular — are considered by many to rival or even surpass the African grey in the clarity and musicality of their speech. They don't just talk; they belt out songs, often with startling accuracy. Anyone whose main goal is a genuine talking bird should seriously weigh the African grey against the Amazon parrot before assuming the grey is

 automatically the better choice.

Built to Last

Like most large parrots, Amazons are a long-term commitment, frequently living 40 to 70 years. That's a defining feature of the species — understanding how long parrots live should be part of anyone's decision, because an Amazon bought in your thirties may still be singing in your eighties.