Black-billed Amazon
Amazona agilis
Jamaica • Small Amazon Parrot
IUCN Status
Vulnerable
The Black-billed Amazon (Amazona agilis) is a small, lively Amazon parrot endemic to Jamaica. It features bright green plumage with a distinctive black bill, red wing speculum, and subtle blue highlights on the head. Known for its energetic personality, excellent talking ability, and playful nature, this species is smaller and generally quieter than many of its larger Amazon relatives. Due to habitat loss and the pet trade, it is listed as Vulnerable in the wild.
General Description
| Common Name | Black-billed Amazon |
| Latin Name | Amazona agilis |
| Family | Psittacidae • Amazon Parrots |
| Adult Size | 25–28 cm (10–11 in) |
| Weight | 200–300 g |
| Life Span | 40–60+ years in captivity |
| Sexual Maturity | 4–6 years |
| Clutch Size | 2–3 eggs |
| Gender Difference | Minimal visual dimorphism. Males are slightly larger; DNA testing is recommended. |
| Natural Habitat | Moist limestone forests and woodlands in Jamaica. |
| Origin / Range | Endemic to Jamaica (mainly the eastern and central parts of the island). |
| Care Level | Intermediate • Requires varied diet and mental stimulation |
Amazona agilis • Adult showing black bill and green plumage
JAMAICAN BLACK-BILLED AMAZON • SMALL & INTELLIGENT
Plumage & Features
The Black-billed Amazon is predominantly bright green with a distinctive black bill (unlike most Amazons which have pale or horn-coloured bills). It has a red wing speculum and subtle blue highlights on the crown and nape. The tail has a broad red band at the base with green tips.
Juveniles are similar to adults but have duller coloration and a paler bill that gradually turns black. This species is known for being relatively quiet compared to larger Amazons and is an excellent talker when properly socialised.
Conservation Status:
Vulnerable (IUCN Red List) — CITES Appendix II
Amazona Genus
Jamaica
Black-billed Amazon