Fauna
Bird

Golden-collared Macaw

Primolius auricollis

Also known as Yellow-collared Macaw, Cassin's Macaw

Golden-collared macaws are vibrant, medium-sized parrots easily recognized by the bright yellow band wrapping around the back of their necks. Highly social and expressive, they travel in noisy pairs or small flocks across South American woodlands, maintaining constant communication with harsh, metallic screeches. They play a vital ecological role as seed dispersers, feeding on a variety of canopy fruits and nuts.

VocalSocialCanopy-dwelling
Golden-collared Macaw reference
(c) Morten Ross, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Morten Ross · cc-by
—observations
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyPalm fruits, Figs, Seeds
Predators
  • Harpy eagles
  • Tree-climbing snakes
  • Coatis
ThreatsHabitat loss, deforestation, and capture for the illegal pet trade
HabitatsDeciduous woodlands, gallery forests, humid forests, and Pantanal savannas
Life span30 to 40 years
Classification
  1. FamilyPsittacidae
  2. SpeciesPrimolius auricollis
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Capable of a powerful bite if cornered; observe from a respectful distance.
Why it is dangerous
Possesses a strong, hooked beak designed for cracking hard nuts, which can inflict deep puncture wounds if the bird feels threatened.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Look for the bright yellow collar on the hindneck, green body, and blue-tipped wings.
What to do
Never attempt to handle wild macaws; admire their flight and social behaviors from a safe distance.
Responsible observation
  • Listen for calls: Locate them by listening for their loud, screeching contact calls in the canopy.
  • Scan palm trees: Look for them feeding on palm nuts, especially in early morning or late afternoon.
  • Keep your distance: Avoid approaching nesting cavities in tree hollows to prevent disturbing breeding pairs.
Related species
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