Species · GBIF taxon 5959231
Blue-and-yellow Macaw
Ara araraunaAlso known as Blue-and-gold Macaw
Blue-and-yellow macaws are magnificent, highly social parrots that light up the canopy with their brilliant plumage and raucous, screaming calls. They live in lifelong pairs, flying wingtip-to-wingtip in search of clay licks, seasonal fruits, and hard-shelled nuts. In the wild, these intelligent birds play a vital role in forest regeneration by dispersing seeds across vast tropical landscapes.
SocialVocalCanopy-dwelling
- diet
- Herbivorous (seeds, nuts, fruits, nectar, and clay)
- family
- Psittacidae
- threats
- Habitat destruction, illegal pet trade, and hunting
- life Span
- 30 to 50 years in the wild, up to 80 years in captivity
LC
Possesses an extremely powerful beak capable of delivering a severe bite; do not attempt to handle.
The massive, hooked beak can exert immense pressure, easily crushing finger bones or causing deep lacerations if the bird feels threatened.
Observe wild birds from a distance using binoculars, and never attempt to corner, feed, or handle them.- Listen for calls: Their loud, harsh screeches can be heard from miles away, signaling their approach long before they are seen.
- Watch clay licks: Visit exposed riverbanks early in the morning to witness spectacular gatherings consuming mineral-rich clay.
- Look up: Scan the highest branches of dead palm trees, which are favored nesting sites for breeding pairs.