The Blue-cheeked Amazon (Amazona dufresniana)

The Subtle Beauty of the Guiana Shield

The Blue-cheeked Amazon, also known as Dufresne’s Amazon, is a stunning and relatively rare parrot native to the northeastern corner of South America. Found primarily in the lush rainforests of Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana, this bird is prized for its soft, multi-colored facial features that set it apart from the more common green Amazons.

While it is less famous than the Blue-front or the Yellow-naped, its gentle demeanor and complex color palette make it a “hidden gem” for those who appreciate the subtle nuances of the Amazon family.

Key Characteristics

• The “Blue Cheek” Mask: Their most defining feature is the soft, lavender-blue to violet-blue wash on their cheeks and ear coverts.

• Warm Forehead Accents: They feature a bright orange or yellow-orange patch on the forehead and lores (the space between the eyes and beak), creating a beautiful contrast with their blue cheeks.

• Golden-Yellow Tail Flash: When they fan their tails, they reveal brilliant golden-yellow panels on the outer feathers, a striking sight during flight.

• Quiet and Observant: Compared to the boisterous “hot-three” Amazons, Blue-cheeks are generally more reserved and thoughtful. They are less prone to aggressive outbursts and tend to be very observant of their surroundings.

Quick Facts

Care & Social Needs

Because of their specific origins and temperament, the Blue-cheeked Amazon has unique requirements:

• High Humidity: Native to the moist forests of the Guiana Shield, they thrive on high humidity. Regular baths, misting, or a humidified room are essential for their skin and feather health.

• Deep Social Bonds: They are very social birds that thrive on consistent interaction. While they are less “needy” than cockatoos, they require a stable relationship with their human caretakers.

• Foraging Variety: They have a high metabolism and are active foragers. Their diet should include a wide variety of fresh, tropical fruits and vegetables to simulate their natural nutrient intake.

Is a Blue-cheeked Amazon Right for You?

The Blue-cheeked Amazon is ideal for the experienced parrot owner who prefers a bird with a calmer, more dignified presence. They are well-suited for a quiet household where they can be part of the family without the overwhelming noise levels associated with some of their larger relatives.