Description
Blue and Gold Macaw: Bird Species Profile
Temperament, Diet, and Care Tips
By Rebecca Monic, Updated 03/10/21
Fact-Checked by Rebecca Monic
In This Article:
- History
- Temperament
- Speech and Vocalizations
- Colors and Markings
- Care
- Health Problems
- Diet and Nutrition
- Exercise
- Where to Adopt or Buy
- Further Research
Species Overview
Common Names: Blue and Gold Macaw, Blue and Yellow Macaw
Scientific Name: Ara ararauna
Adult Size: Approximately 33 inches from beak to tail, with a wingspan of 40 inches or more. Typically weighs over 2 pounds.
Life Expectancy: Can live 60+ years, although the average lifespan is around 30 years, with some reaching 100 or more years.
Introduction
Blue and gold macaws are among the most popular large parrots due to their breathtaking beauty, captivating personalities, and intelligence. These vibrant birds stand out with their striking colors and comical charm. However, owning one requires a commitment to their attention needs and care, making them ideal for experienced bird owners.
Origin and History
Blue and gold macaws are native to Central and South America, particularly in Panama and northern South American countries. They thrive in forested areas near rivers and swamps but can also adapt to grassy savannahs with tall trees. These birds are social, typically traveling in pairs and gathering in flocks for foraging.
Unfortunately, their population in the wild has been endangered due to habitat destruction, illegal hunting, and the pet trade. In the past, many macaws were taken from their nests and sold as pets. However, since 1935, successful breeding programs in the U.S. have made them more accessible and affordable as pets.
Temperament
Known for their friendly and sweet nature, blue and gold macaws make excellent pets. They are social, highly intelligent, and quick learners, excelling in tasks such as speaking and performing tricks. These macaws enjoy the company of both humans and other birds and adapt well to new environments when properly socialized.
At home, they often exhibit dog-like behaviors, seeking attention and staying close to their owners. They are also content observing household activities from their perch.
Speech and Vocalizations
Blue and gold macaws are known for their loud calls, which may not be suitable for those living in apartments or close quarters. These birds can be noisy, making them better suited for homes with ample space.
On the positive side, blue and gold macaws are skilled talkers. They can quickly learn and understand around 20 words and phrases. Due to the clarity of their voice, they are often considered among the best talking parrots. Consistent training is key to fostering their communication abilities.
Colors and Markings
The blue and gold macaw’s vibrant plumage is its most striking feature. Their foreheads are green, transitioning into a bright blue that covers the nape, back, tail, and wings. The chest, belly, and underside of the wings are a golden yellow.
They also have a large black beak and a patch of black feathers under their beak, along with white skin around their eyes, bordered by black feathers.
Although this species is considered monotypic (only one species), there are two subspecies:
- Bolivian Blue and Gold Macaw: A larger bird with a deeper blue coloring.
- Blue-Throated Macaw: Distinguished by a teal blue throat instead of the usual black.
Male and female blue and gold macaws look similar, making it difficult to distinguish them visually. Genetic or surgical sexing is required to confirm their sex.
Caring for a Blue and Gold Macaw
Blue and gold macaws are social birds that thrive on attention and strong bonds with their owners. Proper socialization and mental stimulation are essential; otherwise, boredom may lead to undesirable behaviors like excessive screaming.
These large birds need a spacious cage (at least 5 feet tall, 3-4 feet wide) with ample room to stretch, climb, and explore. Many owners create dedicated bird-safe spaces in their homes. Since macaws tend to chew on anything, ensure that any electrical wires, jewelry, or wooden furniture are removed or protected.
Before adopting one, be mindful of the ongoing costs involved in caring for a macaw, including regular veterinary visits, high-quality food, and accessories like a cage, toys, and play stands.
Common Health Problems
While blue and gold macaws can live for many decades, they are susceptible to some health issues:
- Macaw Wasting Syndrome: A viral infection.
- Overgrown Beaks: Can cause feeding and health problems.
- Self-Mutilation: Boredom or neglect can lead to feather plucking.
A balanced diet and regular exercise can help prevent these issues. Nutritional problems like obesity, fatty liver disease, and fatty tumors are also common if their diet is not properly managed.
Diet and Nutrition
In the wild, blue and gold macaws eat a wide variety of seeds, fruits, nuts, and plant material. To replicate this diet, your macaw should have a varied selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, alongside a high-quality pelleted diet. Be sure to avoid high-fat nut treats.
Recommended fruits include apples, pears, cherries, bananas, mangos, and berries. Vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens are also great options. Never feed avocado, chocolate, or rhubarb, as these are toxic to birds.
Each day, a blue and gold macaw will typically consume about ½ to ¾ cup of parrot mix and a similar amount of fruits and vegetables. Remove any leftover food by evening to maintain cleanliness.
Exercise
Blue and gold macaws are very active and require at least 2 to 3 hours of playtime outside their cage daily. They love climbing, swinging, and chewing, so be sure to provide durable, bird-safe toys to help exercise their muscles and keep their beaks healthy.
Chewable toys made from leather, and ones with hidden nooks and crannies, provide both physical and mental enrichment. The macaw’s curiosity drives it to investigate and break apart objects, which keeps it entertained and mentally stimulated.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Highly intelligent and trainable
- Sociable with humans and other birds
- One of the more affordable macaw species
Cons:
- Can be very noisy
- Requires a large living space
- Needs at least 2-4 hours of supervised out-of-cage time daily
Where to Adopt or Buy a Blue and Gold Macaw
If you’re interested in adopting or purchasing a blue and gold macaw, ensure you buy from a reputable breeder or adoption agency. A good breeder should let you interact with their birds to see if the macaw is a good fit for your home.
Blue and gold macaws typically cost between $1,000 to $2,000, but the price can vary. Some online platforms for purchasing or adopting a macaw include:
- Birds Breeders
- Petfinder
- Birds of Paradise
Make sure to select a bird that is active, alert, and healthy, with bright eyes and clean feathers.
Further Research and Similar Species
If you are considering other large parrots, you may want to explore these similar species:
For more information on medium to large-sized companion birds, consider researching other species to find the perfect fit for your home.
