Blue-winged macaw

The blue-winged macaw, in aviculture more commonly known as Illiger's macaw, is a species of small macaw found in central and eastern South America. The second name is in honor of the German ornithologist Johann Karl Wilhelm Illiger. It was previously placed in the genera Ara or Propyrrhura. Blue-winged macaws have been known to reach an age of 50–60 years.

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Distribution

Region

Eastern and central South America

Typical Environment

Found mainly in eastern and central Brazil, extending into eastern Paraguay and extreme northeastern Argentina (Misiones). It occupies gallery forests, edges of Atlantic Forest remnants, cerrado woodlands, caatinga with riverine trees, and palm groves. Birds often move locally between feeding and roosting sites and may visit agricultural lands. It nests in tree cavities, frequently in large, mature trees or palms. Populations are patchy where forest has been fragmented.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1200 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size40–43 cm

Wing Span55–60 cm

Male Weight0.28 kg

Female Weight0.26 kg

Life Expectancy50 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 3/5

Useful to know

Also known as Illiger's macaw, this small macaw forms tight pair bonds and often travels in pairs or small family groups. It favors palm-rich woodlands and relies on tree cavities for nesting. Trapping and habitat loss have reduced some populations, and it can live 50–60 years in captivity when well cared for.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

social and active

Flight Pattern

strong flier with rapid, direct wingbeats

Social Behavior

Usually seen in pairs or small groups, with larger gatherings at favored roosts. Pairs maintain close contact and may engage in mutual preening. Nests are placed in natural tree cavities or old palm cavities, with both parents caring for the young.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Vocalizations are loud, harsh screeches and repeated squawks, especially in flight. Calls are carrying and used to keep contact within pairs or small flocks.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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