Amazon Parrot Species Compared: Orange Winged, Mealy, Blue Front and More
The word Amazon Parrot covers an entire genus of more than 30 species, which makes shopping for one genuinely confusing if nobody lays out the options clearly. Most buyers eventually narrow their search to one of eight species that are actually available from US breeders. This guide puts all eight side by side so you can compare size, price, and talking ability before committing to individual species research.
The 8 commonly available Amazon Parrot species
| Species | Scientific Name | Length | Price 2026 |
| Yellow Naped Amazon | Amazona auropalliata | 14 to 15 inches | $2,800 to $3,500 |
| Double Yellow Head Amazon | Amazona oratrix | 15 to 16 inches | $2,500 to $3,500 |
| Yellow Crowned Amazon | Amazona ochrocephala | 14 to 15 inches | $2,000 to $3,000 |
| Blue Front Amazon | Amazona aestiva | 14 to 15 inches | $1,800 to $2,800 |
| Lilac Crowned Amazon | Amazona finschi | 13 inches | $1,500 to $2,300 |
| Mealy Amazon | Amazona farinosa | 15 to 16 inches, largest common Amazon | $1,800 to $2,800 |
| Red Lored Amazon | Amazona autumnalis | 13 inches | $1,700 to $2,500 |
| Orange Winged Amazon | Amazona amazonica | 13 inches | $1,500 to $2,200 |
For the full pricing breakdown with first year ownership costs, see our Amazon Parrot cost guide. For a deeper dive on one specific species, see our full Lilac Crowned Amazon guide.
Yellow Naped Amazon: the best talker
Widely considered the single best talking Amazon species, with clear diction and vocabularies that can exceed 100 words. Named for the yellow patch across the back of the neck. Commands the highest price of the common Amazon species, reflecting strong demand.
Double Yellow Head Amazon: close second for talking
Named for the solid yellow coloring across the entire head in mature adults (young birds have little to no yellow, which develops with age). Nearly matches the Yellow Naped for talking ability and is similarly priced.
Yellow Crowned Amazon: the middle ground
Sometimes considered a subspecies group encompassing several yellow headed Amazon varieties. Solid talking ability, slightly below Yellow Naped and Double Yellow Head, at a somewhat more moderate price point.
Blue Front Amazon: the classic Amazon look
Named for the blue patch across the forehead above the beak, with a yellow face and green body. One of the most recognizable Amazon species and a reliable moderate talker, often considered a good balance of availability, price, and personality.
Lilac Crowned Amazon: the underrated option
Named for the distinctive lilac to maroon crown coloring. One of the more affordable Amazon species with solid talking ability. See our full Lilac Crowned Amazon guide for complete details.
Mealy Amazon: the gentle giant
The largest commonly kept Amazon species, named for a dusty, mealy looking coating on the feathers that gives the green body a slightly matte appearance. Often described as calmer and less prone to hormonal aggression than some other Amazon species, making it a good choice for buyers wanting Amazon size and personality with a slightly gentler temperament.
Red Lored Amazon: colorful and social
Named for the red patch (the lores) between the eyes and beak, paired with a yellow cheek patch and blue crown in most individuals. A moderately good talker known for an outgoing, social personality.
Orange Winged Amazon: the accessible entry point
The most affordable commonly available Amazon species, named for the orange patch visible on the wing in flight. A capable talker and popular choice for buyers wanting genuine Amazon personality at a lower price point than the yellow headed varieties.
Which Amazon species is right for you?
Want the absolute best talking ability: Yellow Naped or Double Yellow Head.
Want a calmer temperament in a large package: Mealy Amazon.
Want the most accessible price point: Orange Winged Amazon.
Want an underrated, well rounded option: Lilac Crowned Amazon.
For the full honest comparison between Amazons as a family and African Greys, see our African Grey vs Amazon Parrot guide.
Do all Amazon species share the same care needs?
Broadly yes. All Amazon species need a minimum 30 by 24 by 36 inch cage, a 60 to 70 percent pellet based diet with fresh vegetables and moderate fruit, at least 2 to 3 hours of daily interaction, and 10 to 12 hours of uninterrupted sleep. All commonly kept Amazon species live 40 to 60 years, so the species choice matters far less for care planning than the shared 4 to 6 decade commitment every Amazon represents.
Where to buy an Amazon Parrot
At Mo’s Birds we hand raise Amazon Parrots from our Southern California aviary. Browse the Amazon parrots category page, check the new born babies page, or contact Mo directly for current species availability. Local buyers in Southern California can visit in person, and Texas buyers can arrange safe nationwide shipping.
Frequently asked questions
How many species of Amazon Parrot are there?
Over 30 recognized species exist in the genus Amazona, though only about 8 are commonly available in the US pet trade.
Which Amazon Parrot talks the best?
Yellow Naped Amazon is widely considered the best talker, closely followed by Double Yellow Head, with vocabularies that can exceed 100 words.
What is the cheapest Amazon Parrot species?
Orange Winged Amazon, typically $1,500 to $2,200 for a hand raised baby in the US in 2026.
What is the largest Amazon Parrot species commonly kept as a pet?
Mealy Amazon, at 15 to 16 inches, is the largest of the commonly available Amazon species.
Do all Amazon Parrots live the same lifespan?
Broadly yes. All commonly kept Amazon species live 40 to 60 years in captivity with proper care, making species choice less important than the shared multi decade commitment.
Which Amazon Parrot is calmest?
Mealy Amazon is frequently described by owners as calmer and less prone to hormonal aggression compared to some other Amazon species.