Glaucous Macaw<br /><br />The glaucous Macaw is one the rarest birds in the world. It is Critically Endangered and could be extinct in the wild.<br /><br />This bird has been reported by aviculturists from various countries however the most recent sighting was in 1992. The alleged sighting was reported to have occurred in the southwestern region of Paraguay, near the city of Corrientes. The bird was a male.<br /><br />Origin<br /><br />The Glaucous macaw is a threatened parrot species that is native South America. This majestic bird is distinguished by its unique blue feather pattern and strong beak that is capable of breaking open hard nuts and seeds. Glaucous macaws form long-term monogamous families and both parents are involved in the raising of the chicks. The chicks are fed regular food for the first couple of weeks of their lives, and then solid foods as the chicks grow. Parents are also responsible for teaching the young macaws to fly and hunt.<br /><br />The glaucous macaw is considered to be extinct in the wild, yet rumors of this beautiful bird's existence persist across the globe. It is estimated that the glaucous Macaw was extirpated in the 1800s because of logging and cattle grazing of yatay palm (Butia yatay) areas, where the birds primarily gathered their meals. The Glaucous Macaw is believed have returned, and is often kept with its larger relative, Lear’s macaw.<br /><br />The glaucous Macaw can be found in sub-tropical rainforests in South America. They are typically found in areas with abundant palm trees, and they are thought to be extremely adaptable to a variety of forested habitats. These beautiful birds are also recognized as being very territorial and will protect their feeding and nesting areas from invaders.<br /><br />There have been a variety of reports involving the glaucous macaw throughout the years, but most are considered to be not reliable. The most recent report of a wild event is a friend of Ridgely's who claimed to have observed four Glaucous macaws in Califomia. This claim is unacceptable until it is substantiated with hard evidence. Many experts have concluded that the bird is likely extinct as there are no evidence of it in the last century. However they have always been willing accept a remote chance of its survival. If it does survive it is highly unlikely to reach large numbers.<br /><br />Habitat<br /><br />The macaw glaucous is an impressive bird, renowned for its size and stunning turquoise-blue coloration. The tail and wings are long, which aids in its fluid and graceful movements. This bird is also an emblem of love and loyalty. Its beak, which is mostly black, has a distinct shape that allows it to crack seeds and nuts. They are a significant part of its diet.<br /><br />IUCN has classified the Glaucous Macaw as Critically Endangered. It notes that there is only a tiny population of this bird and it is at high-risk of extinction. The species was once fairly widespread but now it is found only in northern Argentina as well as southern Paraguay and north-eastern Uruguay and Brazil from Parana state southwards where it is nestled in cliffs on major rivers.<br /><br />While there have been no credible sightings of the species since 1830 however, the Glaucous Macaw seemed not to be extremely rare within its comparatively small range; specimens were taken up to 1860 (in Corrientes). The last known living Glaucous Macaw was displayed at the Buenos Aires Zoo in 1936 and is believed to be from Brazil.<br /><br />Re-evaluation of the historical records suggests that this species was a very generalist in its preferences for habitat with a preference for the savanna ecosystem, which was interspersed with palm "islands" and forests of riparian along river systems. It was a specific eater of palm fruits, specifically those of the chatay or yatay palm (Butia yatay), but it was likely to also feed on ripe and unripe fruit, nuts, berries and vegetables. It nestled on steep slopes and cliffs, sometimes in tree cavities, and laid an average clutch of two eggs.<br /><br />The bird was likely to be gregarious and social, similar to other parrots. It was reported that it could live to 14.4 years in captivity, and was a reliable breeder who reproduced year after. In the wild, the lifespan was probably between 50 and 80 years. This species was a potent seed disperser and could have contributed to the success of the yatay palm in its natural habitats.<br /><br />Feeding<br /><br />The Glaucous Macaw is one of the most beautiful parrots. Its presence has an enormous impact on the environment. This large South American bird is known for its vivid blue feathers and yellow eyes as well as the distinctive teardrop-shaped lappet that brackets the lower part of its beak.<br /><br /><br /><br />Until recently very little was known about diet of the Glaucous Macaw. The earliest detailed references that I have located are two works by H.W. Bates, "The Naturalist on the Amazons" first published in 1863 about his 11-year stay in Brazil and later in his work "As Birds of the Brazilian Forests". Both of these refer to the Hyacinthine Macaw (Anodorhynchus aureolarius) however I see no reason to think that they are not applicable to this species.<br /><br />The Glaucous macaw is likely have been a specialist feeder, consuming mainly palm nuts, but also tiny amounts of other seeds, fruits and other matter. The diet of this species was likely influenced by the clearing of forests to cultivate cattle and the cattle-ranching practices of early colonists, as well the felling of yatay (Butia) palms from which it got a large portion of its nutrition.<br /><br />In the wild the Glaucous Macaw was commonly found in subtropical forests that had the savannahs and cliffs surrounded by palm trees, where it nested in tree cavities and on rocky banks or the top of palm fronds. On average, a clutch of two eggs was laid and incubated by the female.<br /><br />The young Glaucous Macaws are altricial, meaning they depend on their parents to care for them until they're fully fledged and can fly. Both males and females are committed to their offspring and will hunt for food and defend them against predators.<br /><br />Unfortunately, the Glaucous macaw isn't found in its former habitat. The disappearance of the majestic bird is likely to be due to trapping that continues for the pet industry as well as disturbance of habitat, specifically the massive removal of palm yatays, which may have been its primary food source. The Glaucous macaw is listed under Critically Endangered.<br /><br />Breeding<br /><br />Glaucous macaws usually form long-term monogamous pairs with both parents taking a role in raising the young. They breed in the dry season when food availability is at its highest. The female lays up to three eggs, which are incubated by the mother for about 28 days. In the initial few weeks after hatching the chicks are fed by their parents through regurgitation. Then the young macaws begin to explore their surroundings and learn how to eat themselves. <a href="https://buy-macaw.com/">buymacaw</a> learn to fly and hunt for food.<br /><br />Like all species of birds, glaucous macaws are highly social creatures. They are active during the day, but sleep at night. At night, they will often seek refuge in tree cavities or other nesting spots that are suitable. Their calls can be heard in the forest throughout the day.<br /><br />The species is expected to rebound from its decline, however it is in danger of being wiped out by habitat loss, illegal trapping of the bird for pet trade, and deforestation. Only about 20 glaucous Macaws are believed to be in the wild. The IUCN has classified the bird as "Critically endangered, possibly extinct."<br /><br />The glaucous macaw, sometimes referred to as Lear's Macaw or blue-throated Hummingbird, is distinguished by its vibrantly blue feathers. It is a large bird, measuring 70 centimeters in length, and has a strong beak that can break open hard nuts and seeds. This gorgeous bird is native to South America, and it is found in various habitats, including grasslands, forests, dry lowland and wetlands.<br /><br />This magnificent bird is an emblem of South American biodiversity. Its elegant appearance is reflected with its slender body, vibrant blue feathers, and lightweight build. The black and curly beak makes it easier to crack open nuts and seeds, which are a large part of its diet. It is a stunning bird, and is frequently featured in bird shows. It is also a favorite in captivity, where it could live for a lifetime.<br /><br />