The Scarlet Macaw(Ara macao) is a parrot species that is found in Latin America. The Scarlet Macaw is classified in the avian order Psittaciformes and the family Psittacidae.
Physical Characteristics
An adult Scarlet Macaw’s plumage is mostly scarlet; however there is blue and yellow on the wings. The yellow on the wings is edged with green in some individuals. There are large bare patches on the face. The tail feathers are blue and red. The upper bill is white and the lower bill is black. The average measurements of a Scarlet Macaw are: 87 centimeters(2 feet, 10.3 inches) long, 116 centimeter(3 feet, 9.7 inches) wingspan, and 1.18 kilograms(2.6 pounds).
| Genus | Ara |
| Species | A. macao |
| Binomial Name | Ara macao |
| Length | 74-95 cm(2’5.1”-3’1.4”) |
| Weight | 0.91-1.49 kg(2-3.28 lbs.) |
| Wingspan | 111.8-120 cm(3’8”-3’11.2”) |
| IUCN Status | Least concern |
Range And Habitat
Scarlet Macaws live year round in: Belize, Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Plurinational State of Bolivia, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago. They have also been introduced to Puerto Rico where they can be seen year round. Scarlet Macaws inhabit forests.
Breeding
Scarlet Macaws nest in tree cavities. The clutch size is 1 to 4 eggs. The eggs are incubated for 24 to 28 days.
Diet
Scarlet Macaws eat seeds, nuts, fruit, leaves, flowers, and nectar. They also occasionally eat clay to help them digest their food.
Fun Facts
- The Scarlet Macaw is the national bird of Honduras.
- Scarlet Macaws can live for up to 90 years.
- Scarlet Macaws can fly at 56.3 kph(35 mph).
