Hyacinth Macaw

Hyacinth macaws (scientifically known as Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus), a type of blue parrots, are the largest of all flying parrots. These “gentle giants” are a delight to look at because of their conspicuous appearance and social disposition. Although their existence is susceptible to extinction because of rapid habitat loss but commercial breeding is legal as it helps conserve the species well.

Adoption of hyacinth macaws is a full-time adventure, that too for a long time. So, ensuring the fact that you are financially, mentally and physically capable of a long term commitment is the most important aspect to contemplate on before acquiring the bird.

Hyacinth Macaw

Macaw Hyacinth

Hyacinth Macaws

Quick Information
Also known as	Hyacinthine macaw
Color	Royal blue body, yellow rings surrounding eyes and beak
Size	Around 40 in (100 cm)
Weight	2.6 -3.6 lb (1.1 -1.5 kg)
Wingspan	Each wing: 15.4-16.5 in (39.1-41.91 cm) while the wingspan is 48 in (122 cm)
Distribution	Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay of South America
Habitat	Semi-open woodland, scrubland, and grassland
Diet	Fruits, seeds, nuts and nectar
Breeding age	Around 7 years
Breeding period	July-December
Clutch size	1-2 eggs
Incubation period	Around 30 days
Fledging	110 days
Lifespan	50-60 years
IUCN conservation status	Vulnerable
Temperament as pets	Calm and affectionate
Maintenance level	High
Noise	Growling and screeching
Talking ability	Moderate

Hyacinth Macaw Photos

Hyacinth Macaw Bird

As pets

Housing

Their wide wingspan and long tail call for a large cage with minimum dimensions of 60X72X36 inches. Also, the ideal material for the cage should be stainless steel, as the bird can destroy other materials easily with its strong beak. Perches made of either ribbonwood or manzanita will help keep nails groomed.

Set up a play pen or a play gym on which the macaw can stay at least for 2-3 hours. This will help the bird relax its muscle and extend wings.

Temperature

Although the bird can withstand both cold and hot weather, the ideal temperature is always around 86°F. Also, the surroundings should be draft free.

Pictures of Hyacinth Macaw

Hyacinth Macaw Wingspan

Temperament and personality

Hyacinth macaws exhibit amicable and outgoing behavior, most of which starts off with making a strong bond with their owner, although they are not possessive about their preferred “human”. If you have frequent guests at home, your pet will gladly meet them out of its instinctive social nature. It even enjoys playing with kids. If left alone for a long time it becomes cranky. For its enrichment, toys and human association are needed.

Don’t get surprised if your bird acts like a prankster, as playing dead is one of its favorite activities. Sometimes, keeping its beak out of the cage or staring at you endlessly are little tricks it might do to you. Chomping on wooden toys, with or without chewable leather strips, is their favorite activity. Talking is their forte, picking up some words and repeating them isn’t unexpected from these clever birds. It enjoys cuddling and kisses from its owner.

Feeding

Due to their strong metabolism, they digest fast. Fresh vegetables and fruits, those are high in carbohydrates and fat along with low protein are a good way to satisfy their dietary needs. Macadamia fruits, coconut, walnut, and Brazilian nut should be given frequently. Market-ready formulated diets are also ideal.

Hyacinth Macaw Baby

Blue Hyacinth Macaw

Care

As already mentioned, you need the diligence to look after your pet. Never leave it alone as the bird might emit a harsh sound, if it doesn’t find you, in hope to get a response from you. Treat them just the way you treat a three-year-old with your love and attention. Since it has a strong beak, during training, biting is a common thing to come across, so careful handling is needed. Engage it in stimulating activities by interacting so that it doesn’t become destructive.

Health problems

Cloacal or oral papillomas, proventricular dilation disease, toxicity, allergies, psittacosis, kidney disease, pancreatitis, viral or bacterial infection, and beak malformations are common ailments of hyacinth macaws. Loss of appetite, difficult breathing, drooping wings, excess salivating, and watery eyes are red flags necessitating proper check up by a vet.

Hyacinth Macaw Pictures

Baby Hyacinth Macaw

Price

These birds’ average price ranges from $9,000-$14,000.

Interesting facts

The famous animated movie “Rio” shows a hyacinth macaw as its protagonist.
Due to the similarity in coloration, this species is often confused with another species, Lear’s macaw.
In the wild or breeding enclosure, they are often seen planting kisses on their mating partner.
In the wild, although they usually lay two eggs, but only one of them survives.
This species has been crossed with several other macaws and produced colorful offspring like caloshua macaws (blue and gold macaw X hyacinth macaw), emerald macaw (Buffon’s macaw X hyacinth macaw), and milicinth macaw (military macaw X hyacinth macaw).