Sierra Madre Occidental, Mexico, formerly wandering into southernmost USA, where perhaps was present for years at a time.
Rarity Status
Currently this species is not classified as a rarity in this country OR information has not been updated.
Population
Estimated population is 2,000 - 2,800 (2010) and decreasing.
Status EN
Habitat destruction, degradation and fragmentation, illegal trade, are the main threats.
For more information see BirdLife International Species Factsheet.
Habits
Flocks roost on cliffs. Reintroduced birds have used trees. Outside the breeding season, it is nomadic.
Voice
Like a high-pitched macaw. Variety of screeches, squawks, screams and shrieks. Harsh, rolling 'cra-ak, graa-ah' and laughing calls.
Thick-billed Parrot (Rhynchopsitta pachyrhyncha) [XC337732]
by Richard E. Webster from Cerro Cinco Millas, near Madera, Chihuahua, Mexico (call)
Thick-billed Parrot (Rhynchopsitta pachyrhyncha) [XC337709]
by Richard E. Webster from Cerro Cinco Millas, near Madera, Chihuahua, Mexico (call)
Subspecies
Very close to Maroon-fronted Parrot (Rhynchopsitta terrisi) but the two are probably best considered to form a superspecies.
No subspecies.
Similar Species
Military Macaw (Ara militaris) which is larger with proportionally longer tail and blue flight feathers and rump. Lilac-crowned Amazon (Amazona finschi) which has a shorter tail, lacks yellow underwing and calls differently. Maroon-fronted Parrot (Rhynchopsitta terrisi) which is a similar green in colour, but is larger, has maroon head markings and lacks yellow underwing.
References
See References.
BirdLife International Species Factsheet