5 feathery facts about macaws

Macaws are a popular choice in pets from the Parrot Family. They’re sociable personalities make for a colourful companion to keep you entertained. Their loyal nature makes them a great bird to grow old with. But how old do they grow to? And just how loyal are they?

Here are 5 interesting facts about Macaws.

1. Largest parrot

Macaws are the biggest of the Parrot species. The largest macaw can measure up to 3.5 feet long from the tip of the beak to the end of the tail. They can weigh around 2-4 pounds and their wingspan can be up to 60 inches.

2. Mate for life

These love birds are certainly the romantic type. Once birds have found their mate they will stick with them for the rest of their life. They will share food, groom each other and always fly closely together. In captivity, the owner is often seen as the mate by the bird. As a result they will become attached to the owner and can even get jealous.

3. Long lived

Macaws can live for up to 80 years. As pets, it is not uncommon for these birds to outlive their owners. So think seriously whether you can commit long term before buying one.

4. Strong vocalists

Macaws are intelligent, social birds. In the wild, macaws are programmed to create specific sounds for each family member. A parent will give each chick there own sound and the chick will know how to reproduce these calls. This natural instinct is what encourages pet birds to reproduce human words and sounds.

5. Threatened, endangered and extinct species

Scientists have now identified 22 species of macaws. Of these 22, 5 are extinct, 4 are listed as endangered, and 3 are critically endangered. The rest are considered as under threat. So be sure to buy your bird from a reputable breeder.