Blue-throated macaw facts
- Individuals can be identified by their unique facial feather pattern.
- Blue-throated macaws mature at around five years old and can live for over 50 years.
- Like all parrots, these macaws are zygodactyl, meaning they have two toes facing forwards and two toes facing backwards on each foot, giving them excellent grip for climbing.
What do blue-throated macaws look like?
These rare parrots are part of the macaw family, which contains the world's tallest parrots. At first glance they might look similar to the blue and yellow macaw, but there are some subtle differences between the two species. Blue-throated macaws have less white feathers around their face, and a patch of blue feathers on their throat. The scientific name for blue-throated macaws Ara glaucogularis comes from the Greek word 'glauco' meaning pale blue, and the Latin word 'gula' meaning throat!
What do blue-throated macaws eat?
Using their powerful beaks, blue-throated macaws can prise open nuts, seeds and the fruit of the palm trees they nest in.
Where do blue-throated macaws live?
Blue-throated macaws are only found in a small area of Bolivia known as Los Llanos de Moxos. This unique habitat is an expanse of lush plains and marshland dotted with 'islands' of trees, which flood seasonally. It's also home to giant Amazon river otters and Bolivian river dolphins! The blue-throated macaws make their nests inside the palm trees dotting this landscape.
Are blue-throated macaws extinct?
These critically endangered macaws are one of the world's rarest parrots. It's estimated that there are less than 400 individuals in the wild due to habitat destruction and illegal trapping for their feathers and pet trade. Each year over 500,000 parrots are sold illegally around the world as part of the illegal wildlife trade.
How can I help to protect blue-throated macaws?
Look for the FSC logo when buying wood, paper or cardboard products. This ensures the products have come from sustainably managed forests, helping to minimise your impact on the world's forests. Help fight the illegal wildlife trade by speaking up for wildlife. Don't like or share social media content which promotes keeping parrots as pets.
