Macaws Parrot Facts, Behavior and Health Care Info

Macaws are some of the largest and most colorful birds in the parrot family. They can get so big that their beaks are bigger than a man’s hand. It’s not a good idea to start with a macaw if you are just beginning as a bird owner. If you must have one though, macaws do come in a few smaller varieties, such as the Hahn’s. This would be a better way to go if you are new to keeping birds.

Appearance
The first thing that comes to mind when you think of macaws is probably the blue and gold variety. This popular bird has yellow and blue feathers, making it quite attractive. The blue and gold is nearly three feet (91cm) in length. These birds are also quite affordable when comparedto other macaws.

Behavior and Characteristics
Macaws may be a bit temperamental when they are young, but usually grow into mild mannered adults. However, use extreme caution when dealing with a mature blue and gold that has gone to nest. These normally laid back birds will strike at their owners in a heartbeat during this time. Their powerful beak has the potential to bite all the way through a person’s hand. This is another reason people who have small children should not consider these birds.

The Green wing macaw is also a very popular variety. This bird is a colorful mix of green, blue and red, as well as being one of the largest macaws. Much like the blue and gold, the Green wing is gentle as an adult, but also goes through a moody and snippy phase when it’s younger.Avoid any unnecessary stress during that period of time. The Green wing macaw is the most likely of all the macaws to become a decent talker, if that’s what you’re looking for.

The Scarlet macaw is one of the most colorful parrots you will find. This beautiful bird has bright red, yellow and blue feathers. Their personality isn’t quite as mild natured as most other macaws, which is why they are not very popular as pets.

The largest parrot in the world is the beautiful Hyacinth macaw, with it’s blue body and yellow features. These powerful birds can be up to forty two inches (106cm) long. Their massive beaks are capable of dismantling almost any welded birdcage. Although they are quite large, the Hyacinth is very laid back and gentle, making them wonderful pets. They are, however, very hard to come by and quite expensive, due to being on the endangered species list.

Finally, there are alternatives if you want a macaw, but aren’t sure if you want a bird that big. The Hahn’s is one of the mini macaw species. This bird is predominantly green in color and is only twelve inches (30cm) long. The Hahn’s macaw is not among the most colorful parrots, butit may have a hint of red, blue or yellow along with the green. These birds are very intelligent and entertaining, and are a great alternative to the larger macaw.

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