Glaucous Macaw

The glaucous macaw is one of the rarest birds on earth. It is critically endangered and could be extinct.

Many birdwatchers have reported sightings this bird however the most recent sighting was in 1992. The alleged sighting was reported to be in the southwest region of Paraguay near the city Corrientes. The bird was male.

Origin

The Glaucous macaw is an endangered parrot species that is native South America. This magnificent bird features a distinctive blue feather pattern as well as a powerful beak that is capable of breaking open tough nuts and seeds. Ziggy hyacinth macaw parrots for sale live in monogamous couples and both parents care for the chicks. They feed the chicks regurgitated food for the first couple of weeks after birth, and then they begin to eat solid food as they grow. Parents are also responsible for teaching young macaws to fly and hunt.

The glaucous Macaw is thought to be extinct in the wild, however stories of this gorgeous bird's existence continue to spread all over the world. The glaucous Macaw is believed to have been extinct in the 1800s due to the logging industry and cattle grazing in yatay (Butia) palm groves where the birds would gather their food. The glaucous Macaw is believed to have made a comeback, and is often kept along with its larger relative, Lear’s macaw.

The glaucous Macaw lives in subtropical rainforests of South America. They are usually found in areas with abundant palm trees, and are thought to be extremely adaptable to a variety of forested habitats. These beautiful birds can be territorial and defend the nesting and feeding area from intruders.

There have been a variety of reports on the glaucous macaw throughout the years, but most are considered to be not reliable. The most recent claim of a wild incident is a friend of Ridgely's who claimed to have observed four Glaucous macaws in Califomia. This is completely untrue until it can be verified with hard evidence. The absence of any reliable records of this bird in the last century has led many experts to conclude that it is likely extinct, but they have always been willing to accept an extremely remote possibility of its existence (Vielliard 1979, Ridgely 1981a, Sick 1985, Chebez 1986a). If it is able to survive it will be very rare to observe large numbers.

Habitat

The macaw with the glaucous is a striking bird that is known for its huge size and stunning turquoise-blue coloration. The tail and wings are long, enhancing its fluid and graceful movements. It is also an emblem of love and loyalty. Its beak, which is primarily black, has a distinctive shape that allows it to crack nuts and seeds. They form a large portion of its diet.

IUCN has classified the Glaucous Macaw as Critically Endangered. It states that there is only a small population of the bird and it is at high-risk of extinction. The species was once widespread, but is now only found in northern Argentina south Paraguay and north-eastern Uruguay and Brazil from Parana state to south, where it is nestled in cliffs that run alongside major rivers.

While there have been no confirmed sightings of this species since 1830, the Glaucous Macaw seemed not to be very rare in its comparatively small range; specimens were taken up to 1850 (in Corrientes). Ziggy Our Scarlet Macaw known living Glaucous Macaw was exhibited at the Buenos Aires Zoo in 1936 and is believed to have come from Brazil.

Reassessment suggests that this species is a generalist, and prefers savanna habitat which is surrounded by palm "islands", and riparian forest bands along river systems. It was a specialised food source for palm fruits, specifically those of the yatay or chatay palm (Butia yatay) however, it was also likely to consume ripe and unripe fruits, nuts, berries and vegetables. It is a nesting place on steep slopes or in cliffs, and also in tree cavities.

Like all parrots, this bird was social, and was likely to be gregarious. It was able to live up to 14.8 years in captivity and was said to be a dependable breeder, reproducing year after year. In the wild, the lifespan was probably between 50 and 80 years. This species was a powerful seed disperser, and could have contributed to the success of the yatay palm within its natural habitats.

Feeding

The Glaucous Macaw is one of the most beautiful parrots. Its presence can have an enormous influence on the surrounding. This massive South American bird is known for its vivid blue feathers and yellow eyes, as well as the distinctive teardrop-shaped lipped sleeve that covers the lower portion of its beak.

Until recently very little was known about feeding habits of the Glaucous Macaw. The earliest detailed references that I have located are two works by H.W. Bates' "The Naturalist on Amazons", first published in 1863, and describes his 11-year sojourn in Brazil. In his later book "As Birds of the Brazilian Forests", he wrote about the similar experience. Both of these refer to the Hyacinthine Macaw (Anodorhynchus aureolarius), but I have no reason to think that they're not applicable to this species.

The Glaucous macaw is believed to be a specialist feeder, consuming mainly palm nuts however, there were also tiny amounts of other fruits, seeds and vegetable matter. This species' diet was likely influenced by the clearing of forests to cultivate cattle and the cattle-ranching practices of early colonists as well as the yatay (Butia) palms from which it got a large portion of its nutritional value.

In the wild, the Glaucous Macaw was commonly found in subtropical forests that had the savannahs and cliffs surrounded by palm trees, where it nestled in tree cavities and on rocky banks, or in the top of palm fronds. Females incubate and lay two eggs per.

Ziggy Our Scarlet Macaw rely on their parents for care until they fly and become fully full fledged. Both males and females are extremely committed to their offspring and will continuously hunt for food and defend them from predators.

Unfortunately the Glaucous macaw is no longer found in most of its former habitat. The disappearance of this majestic bird is probably due to the ongoing trapping of pets for the pet trade, as well as habitat disturbance, particularly the massive clearing of yatay palms from which it may have obtained its main food supply. The Glaucous macaw is listed as Critically Endangered.

Breeding

Glaucous Macaws form monogamous long-term pairs. Both parents are involved in raising their children. They breed during the dry season when the availability of food is at its greatest. The female will lay two to three eggs that are incubated by the mother for about 28 days. After hatching they are fed by their parents through regurgitation for the first few weeks of their lives. The young macaws then begin to explore their surroundings and learn how to feed themselves. They are also taught how to fly and forage.


Like all birds, glaucous macaws are social animals. They are active during daylight hours and take a break at night. They often seek refuge in cavities in trees or other suitable nesting sites to sleep. Their calls can be heard in the forest throughout the day.

The species is expected to rebound from its decline, however it is facing numerous threats, including habitat loss and illegal trapping of the bird for the pet market, and deforestation. About 20 glaucous macaws are believed to be in the wild. The IUCN classifies the bird as "Critically Endangered - possibly Extinct."

The glaucous macaw, sometimes referred to as Lear's Macaw or blue-throated Hummingbird is distinguished by its bright blue feathers. It is a large bird, measuring 70 centimeters in length and features a robust beak that can break open tough nuts and seeds. This gorgeous bird is native to South America and can be found in various habitats, including grasslands, lowland forests and wetlands.

This majestic bird is an emblem of South American biodiversity. Its elegant appearance is reflected with its slender body, bright blue feathers, and lightweight build. The black and curly beak allows it to break open seeds and nuts, which are a large part of its diet. It is a beautiful bird that is often seen in bird shows. It is also a favorite in captivity, where it could be kept for a lifetime.