Analysis of the historical knowledge on the geographic distribution of the White-fronted Parrot, Amazona albifrons, with evidence of recent colonization

The distribution of the White-fronted Parrot, Amazona albifrons, in Mexico includes the Pacific and the gulf slopes, from southern Sonora and southern Veracruz, respectively, and continues to Costa Rica. Recently, it has been reported beyond the known historical distribution area, apparently due to human introductions, but the records found in central Veracruz seem to correspond to a recent natural colonization. In this study, we analyzed the geographic distribution of A. albifrons through information from specialized literature, the use of species distribution models, and field work in central Veracruz from 2013-2016. We recorded the observation dates, its reproductive behavior, and feeding habits. Based on this information, we delimited the range of the species from Mexico to Panama. Based on year-round records during the 4 years of fieldwork and observation of reproductive behavior during winter and spring, we consider that it has recently expanded its distribution to central Veracruz, which includes +/- 200 km north of the known historical distribution in eastern Mexico. Finally, we analyzed and identified a total of 14 species of plants in this region from which the species feed.