CHOOSING A MACAW
General information
Macaws (Ara sp.) are the largest members of the parrot family. These magnificent,
vividly colored birds originate from Mexico, Central and South America. They
have a long tapered tail, strong body and large powerful beak. Macaws are intelligent,
playful and inquisitive. This is a high maintenance bird. Considerable space
is required to house this immense bird. They require plenty of affection and
attention. Some birds will bond with one person, showing aggression towards
others, some are nervous and excitable, while individuals and smaller species
tend to be calmer and less awesome. Macaws are able to speak, but are not well
known for this ability. Their vocalizations tend to be loud, harsh, penetrating
squawks. Macaws love to play and chew. Their impressive beak can be exceedingly
destructive. Providing a continuous supply of nontoxic, freshly washed, large
branches and pet-safe toys will afford many hours of entertainment and exercise
for your bird. Hardwoods such as oaks and maples will last longer. Despite the
exotic appeal of Macaws, they may prove unsuitable for most households or family
situations. The Blue and Gold Macaw, although mischievous, is likely the most
appropriate macaw for a family. The Severe Macaw is almost half the size and
has a gentle nature but may prove noisy.
Some commonly kept macaws include the Blue and Gold Macaw, Scarlet Macaw, Severe
Macaw, Green-winged Macaw and the Hyacinth Macaw
Purchasing a Macaw
Macaws may be purchased from a pet shop or, better, a reputable breeder. When
selecting a Macaw, try to choose a young bird as it may be easier to tame and
train. Older, wild, colony or parent raised birds may prove difficult to tame.
Hand raised babies often make better pets since they have been completely socialized
with humans. Young birds are easier to tame and adapt readily to new environments
and situations. Importantly having a captive-bred bird also means that the wild
bird population is not threatened further by catching and importing wild birds.
This practice is bad both for the bird captured and transported as well as for
the dwindling population left in the wild. Your new bird should be exposed early
to different events (young and old people, males and females, other pets, car
trips, visits to the veterinary surgeon, etc.) to help promote a calm, well
adjusted pet. The lively, alert bird that is not easily frightened is more likely
a healthy bird. After purchasing your new bird, have it examined by your veterinary
surgeon.
Veterinary care
Macaws require regular, routine veterinary health checkups. Your veterinary
surgeon can perform a physical examination, grooming (beak, nail or feather
trim) and laboratory tests as needed. During these semiannual checkups., health,
nutritional and maintenance issues can be identified and addressed. Veterinary
checkups. help prevent disease and will aid in the maintenance of a long lasting,
healthy relationship between you and your bird.
Color
Mature
- there are a rainbow of color combinations depending on the species
- blue, green, yellow, red, orange, and rusty brown
- most have a white, naked area of skin surrounding the eyes, extending to
the beak
Immature
Sexing - no external sex differences
Weight - average 9 - 50 ounces (250 - 1400 grams)
Size - average 12 - 40 inches (30 - 100 cm) in length
Life span - 25 - 35 years (maximum 60 years or more)
Diet - consult your vet
Breeding - sexual maturity at 4 - 7 years depending on the species -
most are difficult to breed in captivity
Brood Size - 4 - 7 white eggs hatch in 23 - 28 days, young leave the
nest in 3 months
Cage - minimum 2 ft x 2 ft x 3 ft (60 cm x 60 cm x 90 cm) for smaller
species - minimum 3 ft x 4 ft x 4 ft (90 cm x 120 cm x 120 cm) for larger species
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