Threats

Thick-billed parrots were likely hunted to extinction in Arizona. In their current range in Mexico, they are threatened primarily by logging, and to a lesser degree by trapping for the pet trade.

The thick-billed parrots’ preference for mature pine forests and mountainous Sky Island habitats make it particularly vulnerable to climate change. As species are pushed upslope, their habitat shrinks, to the point where they can literally be sent "over the top."

Finally, thick-billed parrots' ability to disperse may be limited by hotter, drier conditions in the surrounding desert. Climate change is also increasing fire threat and outbreaks of insects that could threaten the pine trees that provide their food supply.