Glaucous Macaw

The glaucous colorful Macaw bird is one of the world's rarest birds. It is considered Critically Endangered and could become extinct in the wild.

This bird has been reported by aviculturists across the globe however the most recent sighting was reported in 1992. The alleged sighting was reported to have occurred in southwestern Paraguay close to the city of Corrientes. The bird was male.

Origin

The Glaucous Macaw is a bird native to South America. It is threatened. This magnificent bird features a distinctive blue feather pattern as well as a strong beak that is capable of breaking open tough seeds and nuts. Glaucous Macaws form monogamous long-term couples and both parents tend the chicks. The chicks are fed regurgitated food in the first few weeks of their lives before being fed solid food as the chicks develop. Parents are also responsible for teaching young macaws to fly and hunt.

The glaucous Macaw has gone extinct, yet rumors of its existence continue to circulate around the world. It is believed that the glaucous Macaw was extirpated in the 1800s because of logging and cattle grazing of yatay palm (Butia yatay) groves, where these birds primarily gathered their meals. The Glaucous macaw representative species is believed have made a comeback, and is often kept with its larger cousin, Lear's macaw.

In terms of habitat The glaucous macaw is able to be found in the sub-tropical forests of South America. They are most often found in areas with abundant palm trees, and they are thought to be extremely adaptable to a variety of forested habitats. These beautiful birds are also known to be very territorial and will protect their nesting and feeding areas from invaders.

Over the years there have been numerous reports of the glaucous macaw, but they are generally not considered reliable. The most recent report of a wild event is a avicultural acquaintance of Ridgely's who claimed to have witnessed four Glaucous macaws in Califomia. This is a ridiculous claim until it is supported with evidence. The absence of any credible evidence of this bird in the last century has caused many experts to conclude that it is likely extinct, yet they have always been open to an extremely remote possibility of its existence (Vielliard 1979, Ridgely 1981a, Sick 1985, Chebez 1986a). If it survives, it is extremely unlikely to be seen in huge numbers.

Habitat

The Glaucous Macaw is a magnificent bird, renowned for its size and turquoise-blue coloration. The long tail and wings highlight its graceful and agile moves. The bird is a symbol of loyalty and love. Its beak is primarily black, and it has a unique shape that allows it to crack open seeds and nuts which make up a large part of its diet.

The Glaucous Macaw is considered Critically Endangered by the IUCN which states that it has an extremely small population and is at a significant chance of becoming extinct. The species was previously quite widespread, but today it is only found in northern Argentina and southern Paraguay and north-eastern Uruguay and Brazil from Parana state southwards. It is nestled in cliffs on major rivers.

Although there have been no confirmed sightings of this species since 1830, the Glaucous Macaw seemed not to be very rare in its limited range. specimens were captured until 1850 (in Corrientes). The last known living Glaucous Macaw was displayed at the Buenos Aires Zoo in 1936 and is believed to be from Brazil.

Re-evaluation of the historical documents suggests that this species was a rather generalist in its habitat preferences with a preference for areas of savanna that were interspersed with palm "islands" and areas of riparian forest along rivers. It was a specific food source for palm fruits, particularly those of the chatay or yatay palm (Butia yatay) however, it could also consume unripe and ripe fruits such as berries, nuts, and vegetables. It nestled on steep slopes and in cliffs occasionally in tree cavities and laid an average clutch of two eggs.

This bird was likely gregarious and social, similar to other parrots. It was said that it could live for up to 14.4 years in captivity, and was a reliable breeder that reproduced year after. In the wild, its life expectancy was likely to be between 50 and 80 years. This species was a powerful seed disperser, and could have contributed to the success of the yatay palm in its native habitats.

Feeding

The Glaucous Macaw is one of the most stunning parrots. The presence of this parrot has an impact on its environment. This huge South American bird is known for its vivid blue feathers and yellow eyes as well as its distinctive teardrop-shaped lipped sleeve that covers the lower part of its beak.

Up until recently, very little was known about feeding habits and diet of the Glaucous macaw. The earliest detailed references I have found are in two works by H.W. Bates' "The Naturalist on Amazons" first published in 1863, describes his 11-year journey in Brazil. Later, in his book "As Birds of the Brazilian Forests", he wrote about the same experience. Both of these references to the Hyacinthine Macaw (Anodorhynchus aureolarius) however I see no reason to think that they are not applicable to this species.

It is probable that the Glaucous Macaw was a particular in the consumption of palm nuts, and also took other seeds, fruits and vegetable matter in small amounts. The diet of this species is likely to be affected by the clearing of forests by early colonists to cultivate and cattle ranching as well as the removal of the yatay palm (Butia yatay) from which it could have received much of its nutrition.

In the wild it was commonplace to find the Glaucous macaw in subtropical forests and savannahs where palm trees were found. It was found in tree cavities, or on rocky banks or palm fronds. On average two clutches of eggs was laid and then incubated by the female.

The young Glaucous Macaws are altricial, which means they depend on their parents to look after them until they become fully grown and able to fly. Both the male and female are extremely dedicated to their young and will continuously hunt for food and defend them from predators.

Unfortunately the Glaucous macaw pet shop has been eliminated from its entire former range. The disappearance of this magnificent bird is likely to be due to the continued trapping of birds for the pet industry and disturbance to habitat, particularly the massive clearing of palm yatays which could have been their primary food source. The Glaucous macaw is listed as Critically Endangered.

Breeding

Glaucous Macaws form monogamous long-term pair. Both parents are involved in the raising of their children. They breed during the dry season, when the food supply is at its highest. Females lay two to three eggs which are incubated by the mother for approximately 28 days. After hatching they are fed by their parents via regurgitation for the first few weeks of their life. The young macaws then begin to explore their surroundings and learn how to eat themselves. They are also taught how to fly and forage.

The glaucous macaw for sale can be described as a extremely social bird. They are active during the day, but are restful at night. During the night they usually seek refuge in tree cavities or other suitable nesting places. 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 illegal trapping of the bird for the pet market, and deforestation. Only about 20 glaucous Macaws are believed to exist in the wild. The IUCN classifies the bird as "Critically Endangered--Possibly Extinct."

The glaucous spix macaw lifespan, sometimes referred to as Lear's Macaw, or the blue-throated Hummingbird is distinguished by its vibrantly blue feathers. It is a large bird, measuring 70 centimeters in length and has a sturdy beak that can break open hard nuts and seeds. The beautiful bird is native to South America and can be found in various habitats such as grasslands, lowland forests and wetlands.

This magnificent bird is a symbol of South American biodiversity. It has a regal look with its slender body, bright blue feathers, and lightweight build. Its beak is curved and black, which aids it break open the nuts and seeds that make up a major portion of its diet. It is a beautiful bird, and is frequently featured in bird shows. It is also a favourite in the wild, where it can remain for a long time.