Red-and-green Macaw

The Red-and-green Macaw, also widely known as the Green-winged Macaw, is one of the largest parrots in the world, with a long, pointed tail and a predominantly deep crimson-red body. A broad green band crosses the upper wing, followed by blue flight feathers and a blue rump and tail tip, giving the bird a bold, tricolored appearance in flight.

The bare white facial skin surrounding the eye is patterned with fine lines of small red feathers, a distinguishing feature that separates it from the very similar but smaller Scarlet Macaw. Often seen flying in pairs high above the canopy with loud, harsh calls, it is also well known for gathering in large numbers at exposed riverbank clay licks, where flocks ingest mineral-rich clay believed to help neutralize toxins in its diet.

Key field marks

• Very large size with a long, pointed red tail
• Mostly crimson-red body with a broad green band across the upper wing
• Blue flight feathers, rump, and tail tip
• Bare white face crossed by fine lines of small red feathers

Similar species

• Scarlet Macaw is similar in overall pattern but has a yellow (not green) band across the wing and a plain, unmarked white face without the fine red feather lines.
• Military Macaw is smaller and mostly green overall, lacking the extensive red body plumage of the Red-and-green Macaw.

Habitat

Inhabits humid lowland tropical forest, forest edge, and river valleys, often near exposed cliffs or riverbanks used as clay licks.

Range

Widespread across much of South America east of the Andes, including the Amazon basin, and extending into eastern Panama.

Migration

Non-migratory, though pairs and flocks may travel considerable distances daily between roosting, feeding, and clay-lick sites.

Behavior

Usually seen in pairs or small family groups flying high above the canopy with strong, direct wingbeats; large numbers often gather at traditional clay licks, where birds ingest clay from exposed riverbanks.

Voice

Loud, harsh, far-carrying squawks and screeches, typically given in flight and audible over long distances.

Feeding

Feeds mainly on seeds, nuts, and fruit, using its powerful bill to crack open hard shells; also consumes clay at mineral licks.

Nesting

Nests in large natural tree cavities, often high in emergent forest trees; typically lays 2 white eggs, with the female doing most of the incubating.