Hyacinth Macaw

Scientific Name: Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus

Classification: Order: Psittaciformes, Family: Psittacidae

Hyacinth Macaw

Brief Description

The largest flying parrot species, known for its stunning blue color and gentle disposition often referred to as 'gentle giants'. They are highly intelligent, social birds that pair for life.

Additional Information

  • Region of Origin: Central and eastern South America (Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay)
  • Typical Sighting Period: Year-round, though more active and visible during the non-breeding dry season (July to December)
  • Plumage Details: Entirely deep cobalt-blue feathers. They have distinct bright yellow rings around their eyes and a yellow lappet at the base of the lower mandible. No significant plumage difference between sexes or ages, though juveniles may have shorter tails.
  • Ecological Significance: Acts as a primary seed disperser and a 'keystone' species in its environment, specifically for various palm species whose hard nuts they are one of the few animals capable of cracking.
  • Conservation Status: Vulnerable (IUCN); population is decreasing due to habitat loss and the illegal pet trade.
  • Observation Tips: Look for them in the Pantanal region of Brazil at dawn or dusk when they are most active. They are often seen in pairs or small family groups near stands of palm trees.

Size & Weight

Length: 100 cm (3.3 ft); Wingspan: 120-140 cm (3.9-4.6 ft); Weight: 1.2-1.7 kg (2.6-3.7 lbs)

Diet

Primarily specialist feeders on nuts from specific palm trees (like Acrocomia aculeata and Attalea phalerata). Their powerful beaks can exert over 1200 psi.

Habitat

Semi-open habitats including palm swamps (veredas), wooded savannas (Cerrado), and seasonally flooded grasslands (Pantanal).

Migration

Non-migratory resident; but they may move locally based on the seasonal availability of food and water.

Voice (Call & Song)

Loud, harsh, guttural 'kraaa-aaa' screeches and deep croaks that can carry for long distances.

Nesting & Breeding

Nests in natural tree cavities (principally the Manduvi tree) or on cliff faces. They lay 2 eggs, but usually only one chick survives. The breeding season typically runs from July to December.

Key Field Marks

Massive size, uniform deep blue plumage, large black beak, and prominent bright yellow eye-rings and chin patches.

Similar Species

Lear's Macaw (smaller, greenish tint to blue, different shaped yellow patch) and the likely extinct Glaucous Macaw (paler, more turquoise/greyish).

Interesting Facts

They are the longest species of parrot in the world. Interestingly, they sometimes eat palm nuts that have passed through the digestive tract of cattle, which softens the outer coating of the nut.