Double Yellow Headed Amazon
also known as the Finsch Amazon
Amazona Ochrocephala Oratrix

Very intelligent - referred to commonly as Zons - known to be exceptional talkers. They are known to be lovable, acrobatic, and, at times, brats - like children.

Adult plummage at approximately 3 years of age. Routine and discipline are very important with the Double Yellow Headed Amazons. Discipline is time outs, or taking an item away. It is important when dealing with young birds to take into account what you will allow when they are adults. If you don't want them on the couch as adults, don't allow them on the couch as babies. If you don't want them on your head when they are full grown, don't let them on your head as young birds. Consistancy and training are very important.

Routine is very important, they get used to getting their food at a certain time, and playing with you at certain times. They don't understand that you want to sleep late, or that you are just not in the mood to play.

Amazons can be very affectionate and playful. Their gymnastic traits are amazing to watch. They move their large bodies in ways that confound people that have never seen an Amazon.

Amazons are very much flock birds. You will become their flock. They need daily attention. If you are unable to provide daily attention due to your lifestyle or work schedule, then a different parrot would be better for you.

Amazons are voracious chewers. You must provide chewing toys, branches, and other items for your Amazon. If you do not provide these items, your parrot will find something to chew on such as furniture, molding and wooden picture frames.

Perch placement is important for Amazons. You must place perches high because they prefer being higher in their home, but do not place it so high that the bird has to bend over when sitting on the top perch. The dowel perches that come with most cages are not appropriate for Amazons. You will need hardwood perches such as Manzanita, bottle brush, or fresh limbs made from safe wood that has not been exposed to pesticides. Rope perches are also an option, but you must watch for loose strings and other damage that could cause their foot to get caught.

Although those round cages are pretty, they are not appropriate for larger birds. A rectangular or square cage is best. Many experts feel that round cages do not give a parrot a good sense of orientation, and they can suffer from what is referred to as 'turning disease'.

Amazons love taking baths. You can put them in the shower or mist them. Which ever method you choose you need to do this daily. If your Amazon is eating a good diet, there is no need for the special sprays available at most pet stores. Plain water is all you need. I have found that they like it at room temperature.

Time outs, covering their cage are acceptable forms of discipline. Never yell at or hit a bird!