Blue and Gold Macaw

Ara ararauna

Macaws are brilliantly-colored, neotropical parrots. They are intelligent, social birds that communicate with each other through loud squawks and screams. Long, flexible toes help the macaw hold onto branches and manipulate objects. The macaw uses its strong beak as both a nutcracker and a ‘third foot’ for climbing.

A bone in the macaw’s tongue helps the bird break into fruit.
A pair of macaws mates for life, and both parents help raise the young.
Important tools for communication, bright colors and vocalizations also make the macaw a popular pet and an easy target for poachers.

Fact File

Pronunciation: muh-KAW
Height: 2.8 to 3.2 ft
Weight: 1.3 to 2 lbs
Lifespan: Up to 50 yrs
Habitat: Wetlands and forest
Diet: Seeds, fruits and nuts

Pretty on a Perch

Spread Your Wings :

The macaw's wingspan is over three-and-a-half feet.

Range:

Central and South America

Birds on Stage

Watch macaws fly during a Great American Wings of Wonder Bird Show Wednesday through Sunday at 1:00pm and 3:00pm.

Flying Free

Scientists at the Zoo’s Lindner Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW) have returned blue and gold macaws to their former range on the island of Trinidad.

Earth Expeditions

Educators! Participate in an Earth Expeditions course to explore inquiry-based learning and community-based conservation in Trinidad.