Amazona vittata
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The Puerto Rican Amazon faces severe threats from habitat destruction, with only 1% of its original forest habitat remaining on the island. Hurricane impacts have repeatedly devastated the small population, with Hurricane Hugo in 1989 reducing numbers to just 23 individuals. Introduced species, particularly the pearly-eyed thrasher, compete for nesting cavities and prey on eggs and chicks, while habitat fragmentation limits breeding success and genetic diversity.
Habitat
The Puerto Rican Amazon inhabits mature tropical rainforest in the Luquillo Mountains and El Yunque National Forest, requiring large trees with natural cavities for nesting. The species depends on diverse forest canopy for feeding on fruits, seeds, flowers, and leaves from over 60 plant species.
