Amazona Bodini

The Bodin’s Amazon (Amazona festiva bodini)

The Northern Festive Beauty

The Bodin’s Amazon, also known as the Northern Festive Amazon, is one of the most unique and visually distinct members of the Amazon parrot family. While many Amazons are defined by yellow or blue heads, the Bodin’s is famous for being the only Amazon species with a bright red lower back and rump, paired with a striking red “mask.”

Native to the humid lowlands of the Orinoco River basin in Venezuela and Eastern Colombia, they are “river specialists” that rarely venture far from water. While they are rare in the pet trade, they are highly prized by enthusiasts for their sophisticated looks and clever, social personalities.

Key Characteristics

• The “Festive” Mask: They sport a vivid red frontal band that extends across the forehead and forecrown, often appearing more extensive than their southern cousin (A. f. festiva).

• The Crimson Rump: Their most defining feature is a patch of brilliant scarlet on the lower back and rump. This “flash” of red is a key field mark, especially visible when they are in flight.

• Blue Accents: They have beautiful violet-blue washes on their cheeks and around their eyes, contrasting sharply with their forest-green body.

• Refined Temperament: Bodin’s Amazons are known for being intelligent and inquisitive. In captivity, they are often described as being slightly more “calm” than the boisterous Double Yellow-headed or Blue-fronted Amazons.

Quick Facts

Care & Enrichment

Bodin’s Amazons require a specialized environment to mimic their tropical river-basin home:

• Bathing is Essential: Because they are native to humid river systems, they love water. Regular misting or access to a bird-safe shower is vital for their plumage and respiratory health.

• Mechanical Puzzles: Like all Amazons, they have a high foraging drive. They enjoy toys they can take apart, leather strips to untie, and foot-toys they can manipulate.

• Dietary Focus: Their diet should consist of a high-quality pellet base, supplemented heavily with fresh vegetables and fruits. They are less prone to obesity than some other Amazons but still require monitored fat intake.

Is a Bodin’s Amazon Right for You?

The Bodin’s is perfect for the Amazon enthusiast who wants something a bit more rare and visually striking. They are ideal for owners who enjoy a bird that is interactive and “chatty” without being quite as intensely demanding as the larger cockatoos.