Ara ararauna
The magnificent Blue-and-yellow Macaw (*Ara ararauna*) is an iconic symbol of Neotropical biodiversity, instantly recognizable by its vivid plumage. Measuring 81 to 96 cm (32-38 inches) from beak to tail, and weighing between 900 to 1300 grams (2-2.8 lbs), this large parrot boasts brilliant blue upperparts, a striking golden-yellow underside, and a distinctive black chin and throat. Its face is adorned with a bare white patch featuring fine black feather lines forming a unique pattern for eac...
Blue-and-yellow Macaws primarily inhabit lowland tropical rainforests, gallery forests along rivers, palm swamps, and savannas with scattered trees. They generally prefer elevations below 500 meters but can be found up to 800 meters.
The diet of Blue-and-yellow Macaws primarily consists of seeds, nuts, fruits, flowers, and leaf buds, with a notable preference for palm fruits. They forage by gleaning and using their powerful beaks to crack open hard shells.
These diurnal parrots are active throughout the day, often seen in pairs or small family groups, but forming larger, noisy flocks at communal roosting sites in tall trees, usually near water. Foraging involves meticulously inspecting trees for ripe fruits, seeds, and nuts, which they expertly cra...
The Blue-and-yellow Macaw boasts a wide native distribution across the Neotropical realm, spanning much of mainland South America. Its breeding range extends from eastern Panama and northern Colombia, encompassing a vast swath eastward through Venezuela, Trinidad, the Guianas (Guyana, Suriname, F...
Least Concern
- Blue-and-yellow Macaws can live for an astonishing 50 to 80 years in captivity, far exceeding their wild lifespan. - Their powerful black bill can exert over 500 PSI of pressure, strong enough to crack even the hardest Brazil nuts and macadamia nuts. - These highly intelligent birds are capable...