Males such as this take two years to acquire their outrageously bright multi-colored plumage. In their first year, they are usually indistinguishable from the overall greenish females. Two races are currently recognized. This is "P. c. pallidior," the smaller, paler western form. Populations along the east coast (nominate "P. c. ciris") are said to be larger and darker. These two populations are separated by a broad gap and have different molt and migration strategies. Both populations are declining. Continued trapping for the pet trade, especially in Mexico, is a likely cause of their decline.
